How long does an Inspection usually last?
A home Inspection on an average size one family home typically lasts around three hours. There are many components to inspect, notes and photographs to take, and very often dialogue between my clients and me. I want to make sure that questions and concerns are addressed to everyone’s satisfaction. There is no such thing as a rush inspection in my company. Click here to see what's inspected.
I'm getting a mortgage insured by the FHA, do I still need an inspection?
Yes, absolutely. But don't take it from me, get it straight from HUD: Click here for more info from HUD.
The home I'm purchasing needs alot of work to make it liveable, but it's selling "as is". How can I still qualify through FHA if it doesn't meet FHA standards?
HUD has a program in place,(203k), that allows you to have a portion of your money set aside for the homes rehabilitation. Working closely with a 203k Consultant such as myself, will make the process smoother and flow more quickly. Click here for more info on the 203k program.
Do I need to be present during an Inspection?
I will not conduct an inspection on a home unless my client is present. This is very important because it ensures that my client has viewed first-hand any deficiencies uncovered, that we discussed them, and that they had an opportunity to ask questions. This re-enforces the report they receive later. The end goal is to walk away from the inspection with the clearest possible understanding of the condition of the home, and what it means to them. This way, they’re in a much better position to make one of the most important decisions of their lives.
I'm buying a new home, do I need an inspection?
Absolutely. Your new home should have already undergone numerous inspections during the building process by the municipalities building inspector, and by an electrical inspector. People all too often assume that because of this there are no deficiencies. This is a bad assumption to make. I find deficiencies in new homes all the time. And while these are mostly minor, many times they are serious fire or health and safety concerns. I have posted some photos of defeciencies found in brand new homes on the gallery page of this website.
Click here for gallery
How much does a home inspection cost?
Our prices start at $325.00. You can get a better idea on price by going to the scheduling panel on the home page, clicking the appropriate building type, size and location, then clicking the "Find Appointment" tab. Click here to go to Home page.
Are all those extra tests you offer really necessary?
No, not necessarily. These additional services are there if you think you need them. When clients book inspections with me I always ask them up front if they would like any of these tests done. Sometimes they know right off the bat if they want them done or not. Other times they want my opinion, so we decide to keep it as an option and wait until the day of the inspection.
What exactly is Infrared Thermal Imaging, and how can it help me?
Infrared (thermal imaging) is an advanced non-destructive technology that allows me to show you things about your home that no one can show you with conventional inspection methods.
An infrared inspection can identify and document:
electrical faults before they cause a fire.
overloaded and undersized circuits.
circuit breakers in need of immediate replacement.
missing, damaged, and/or wet insulation.
heat loss and air infiltration in walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors.
water and moisture intrusion that could lead to mold.
possible pest infestation.
hidden roof leaks, before they cause serious damage.
air conditioner compressor leaks.
under fastening and/or missing framing members.
structural defects.
broken seals in double pane windows.
energy loss and efficiency.
dangerous flue leaks.
damaged and/or malfunctioning radiant heating systems.
unknown plumbing leaks.
overheated equipment.
You hear a lot about Radon Gas these days, how serious is it?
Radon Is a Cancer-Causing, Radioactive Gas. The EPA estimates that Radon Gas causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year; second only to smoking. It is a naturally occurring by-product of decaying uranium, and occurs across the entire U.S. When you consider that a Radon Test only costs $150.00, it’s a small price to pay when the health of you and your loved ones is at stake. The average price for a radon mitigation system starts at around $1200.00. Why should you get stuck with that expense when you can have it taken care of before you buy? Click here for more info on Radon Gas.
What happens if the house fails inspection?
From a Home Inspectors standpoint there is no pass or fail. Ultimately you decide whether or not the house meets your unique requirements. For example, a house with many structural deficiencies may not be appropriate for an elderly couple with limited means and mobility. However, that same house might be a diamond in the rough for carpenter or tradesman that’s getting it for a steal. My goal is to provide you with as much information as possible so that you can make the right choices and deal with issues before they become your problem. Click here for Gallery of photos.
Who else receives a copy of the Inspection Report?
The inspection report is yours exclusively. When you receive your report it will come with copies that you can share with others, such as your agent or bank, if you so choose. I keep a copy in my office, should you ever need a replacement.
What areas do you cover?
I am centrally located in Middletown, NY. This allows me to service all of the Hudson Valley very easily. Listed below are just some of the areas I service.
•Montgomery, NY
•Chester, NY
•Warwick, NY
•Florida, NY
•Greenville, NY
•Slate Hill, NY
•Goshen, NY
•Sullivan County, NY
•Ulster County, NY
•Dutchese County, NY
•NYC & Long Island, NY
I'm selling my house now. Should I get an Inspection?
Eventually your buyers are going to conduct an inspection. You may as well know what they are going to find by getting there first. Having an inspection performed ahead of time helps in many other ways:
•It allows you to see your home through the eyes of a critical third-party.
•It helps you to price your home realistically.
•It permits you to make repairs ahead of time so that defects won't become negotiating stumbling blocks later.
•There is no delay in obtaining the Use and Occupancy permit.
•You have the time to get reasonably priced contractors or make the repairs yourself, if qualified.
•It may encourage the buyer to waive the inspection contingency.
•It may alert you of items of immediate personal concern, such as radon gas or active termite infestation.
•It may relieve prospect's concerns and suspicions.
•It reduces your liability by adding professional supporting documentation to your disclosure statement.
•It alerts you to immediate safety issues before agents and visitors tour your home.
•You can make copies of the inspection report, along with receipts for any repairs available to potential buyers.
Didn't find an answer? Click here to contact me
|
