When buying a home, you should always have a professional home inspection performed. You need to know exactly what you are getting. The professional home inspection will reveal any significant problems with the home so that they may be addressed before you close the deal. Making your buying decision much easier and more confident.

When we inspect the home we will look at the systems that make up the building such as:

Structural elements, foundation, framing ect... Plumbing systems Roofing Electrical systems Heating & cooling systems Doors, windows, paint, siding etc...

The inspection report will identify systems and or components which are in need of repair, the report will also identify unsafe conditions and routine maintenance tasks needed.

You should require an inspection at the time you make a formal offer. Make sure the contract has an inspection contingency. Then, arrange for an inspector of your choosing to come inspect the house and pay close attention to the inspection report. If you aren't comfortable with what we find, you should demand that the seller correct the problems before closing or negotiate for a lower purchase price or better terms to compensate.

The professional home inspection will reduce the risk of costly surprises with what is likely to be the largest purchase you will ever make. It helps you to make a more informed, more comfortable decision.

Ten Tips to Speed Up Your Home Inspection

Sellers can speed their home inspection by following these suggestions. The inspection will go smoother, with fewer concerns to delay closing.

1. Confirm that water, electric and gas service are on, with gas pilot lights burning.
2. Ensure pets won't hinder the inspection. Ideally, they should be removed from premises or secured outside. Tell your agent about any pets at home.
3. Replace burned out bulbs to avoid a "Light is inoperable" report that may suggest an electrical problem.
4. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries.
5. Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters. They should fit securely.
6. Remove stored items, debris and wood from foundation. These may be cited as "conducive conditions" for termites.
7. Remove items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electric service panels, water heaters, attics and crawl spaces.
8. Unlock areas the inspector must access - attic doors or hatches, electric service panels, closets, fence gates and crawl spaces.
9. Trim tree limbs to 10' from the roof and shrubs from the house to allow access.
10. Attend to broken or missing items like doorknobs, locks and latches; windowpanes, screens and locks; gutters, downspouts and chimney caps.

Checking these areas before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property. Your real estate agent will thank you!