What to Expect During a Home Inspection
November 4, 2009 by Customer Care
What to Expect During a Home Inspection in Des Moines, by Des Moines Real Estate Experts RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts
A home inspection is one of the first investments a buyer makes in a property. The purpose of a home inspection is to check out the home for potential problems before the buyer purchases the home. Many real estate purchase offers contain a home inspection contingency clause.
A typical home inspection can last up to three hours. The home inspector makes a thorough examination of the accessible areas and systems of the property. The fee for a home inspection in the Des Moines area covers a standard list of items. If additional tests are requested or required, an extra charge may apply. A radon test is an example of an additional test.
A home inspector will take you through the home step-by-step, pointing out potential and necessary repairs. This information can be invaluable when negotiating the purchase price of the home. The inspection also gives the buyer a fantastic opportunity to become familiar with the details of the systems of the home.
The standard systems of the home to be inspected include the structure, electric, heating/air conditioning, and plumbing systems.
The framing and foundation of the home is considered the structure. The heating and air conditioning system will be tested during the inspection. The vent systems will also be examined.
The plumbing system will be tested including all fixtures and faucets. Drains and plumbing vent systems will be inspected. If the home has a sump pump, it too will be tested.
In addition to the standard systems, the home inspector will inspect all accessible areas of the home including the exterior, interior and basement of the home.
The exterior inspection includes the roof, foundation, doors, decks, balconies, porches, and any walkways or driveways leading toward the entrance of the home.
The interior inspection includes walls, ceilings, floors, stairways and railings, basement, doors and windows. Additionally, the home inspector will test major kitchen appliances such as the oven, stovetop, and microwave oven.
After the inspection you will receive a comprehensive report and supplemental material. This educational material is often in the form of a book or binder. The report will list any issues uncovered during the inspection.
Free information about buying, selling or investing in Des Moines real estate is available. Visit the most complete website online dedicated to everything Des Moines real estate at Real Estate with RE/MAX. Please feel free to contact us with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and we will be more than glad to answer your questions. Call us at 1-800-708-5890 or email us at dsm@realestateconcepts.net.
Filed under Des Moines Real Estate Blog
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