Buyers/Contingency Inspection

Buying a home is a stressful process. In previous generations a homebuyer asked their father, uncle, older brother or some other friend to accompany them when looking at a home. Today more and more home buyers are using a highly trained professional to provide an impartial overall view of their prospective home. Buying a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. A home inspection will tell you the condition of the property before you buy. After the inspection you should have a clearer understanding about the property and feel a sense of confidence and peace about the purchase of your home.

After you have made an offer to purchase the property---is a good time to call an inspector. Have your attorney/realtor include an  "inspection clause" in the contract, making your purchase contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection.

Most of your inspection will be maintenance recommendations and minor imperfections.  However, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:

1. Major defects.  An example of this would be a structural failure.

2. Things that lead to major defects.  A small roof-flashing leak, for example.

3. Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home.

4. Safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel.

Anything in these categories should be addressed. Often a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property (especially in categories 2 and 4).

Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn of defects uncovered during an inspection. Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report. No home is perfect.

Keep things in perspective. Don't kill your deal over things that don't matter. It is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance conditions already listed on the seller's disclosure.

Contact Atlas Home Inspections
To Schedule An Appointment
Office (715) 246-9555 Toll Free  877-861-5502
Call 7:30am to 10:30pm

Weekend and Evening Appointments Available