Most buyers will pay to have an inspection completed on your house.
They may also place an inspection contingency in the purchase contract that gives them
an “out” if there are any significant problems with the house.
There are generally three kinds of inspections that are completed before a house is purchased.
- Structural/Mechanical Inspection – This kind of inspection is usually conducted by a
professional house inspector who evaluates the house’s foundation, doors, windows, roofing,
chimney, gutters, vents, fans, plumbing, electrical system, heating, cooling, ceilings,
walls, floors, insulations, ventilation, septic tanks, wells, sewer lines, exterior, yard,
basement and attic, etc.
- Termite/Pest Inspection – An inspector or pest control company will look for damage or
the possibility of damage from insects, bugs, termites, or dry rot conditions.
- Environmental Inspection – This kind of inspection tests for radon, lead paint, asbestos,
hazardous waste, and other environmental concerns. This kind of test is not routine, but some
states may require it.
If the inspector finds any significant problems with the house, be prepared to continue
negotiations with the buyer. Some of the problems may be minor and the buyer may not want
to adjust the purchase contract. However, if there are more serious issues (i.e. house needs
a new roof, plumbing system, etc) then the buyer will want to negotiate further with you.
The buyer may request to have the problem fixed before they purchase the house, or after.
Sometimes a buyer will require the seller to make the repairs, or they will try to reduce
the purchase price by the amount of money needed to make the repair. Your AllQuest Real Estate®
Agent will be able to guide you through this process.
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