The Importance of a Home Inspection
It is often said that one of the most expensive and important purchases a person will ever make in their life will be a home. However, unlike most other purchases, there is no refund or money back guarantee. This is why it is so important to get as much information as possible before you sign on the dotted line. What is the best way to do that? A home inspection.
We at The Mark Faris Team believe that one of the best ways to make sure a home is a good investment and there are no hidden issues that could cause problems later on, is to hire a professional home inspector. We asked Dave Falconer of Pro-Spect, one of our trusted referrals, some questions to help you better understand the process and importance of a home inspection.
MFT: How long have you been a home inspector and what are your credentials?
DF: I have been a certified home inspector for 10 years now. I am constantly learning from the homes I see and dealing with the various trades. I belong to a trade association strictly for home inspectors called InterNACHI. I have taken additional courses to inspect fireplaces and woodstoves, as a result I am also W.E.T.T. certified.
MFT: How much does an inspection cost and how long does it take?
DF: A home inspection in the Barrie area is approximately $350, depending on who you hire (a little more as you get closer to Toronto). This for an average sized home, and as the size increases the fee may as well. A typical inspection takes approximately 2 hours and I encourage buyers to be present and follow along to ask any questions they may have.
MFT: What are the top 3 hidden potential costly issues that could be missed by a buyer if an inspection is not done?
DF: The most common problems I come across include electrical issues, from undersized wires to incorrect installations. Moisture in the basement is another big issue; the cost of repairs could range from a couple hundred dollars to several thousand. Deficiencies are also common in the attic, from poor venting and low insulation to damaged structural components.
MFT: What is the first thing you personally like to inspect and why?
DF: When I start an inspection I like to begin with the outside, identifying possible sources of problems, then proceed to the inside to see if there is any negative impact on the interior. I have a routine that helps ensure everything is checked, it allows me to answer questions that a buyer may have in a different part of the house and return to where I was without missing any areas.
MFT: What is the importance of having a qualified home inspector perform the inspection instead of a friend or family member?
DF: As an inspector I can remain unbiased, I am not emotionally attached to the house. While friends and family mean well, they often share the buyer’s excitement and may miss some areas of concern. As an inspector I also carry tools and equipment specifically for home inspections that most people do not have. I believe a home inspection is very important, to help identify the shortcomings or deficiencies of a house, as well as learning how to maintain or care for your future home.
So as you can see, when looking to invest in one of the biggest purchases you may ever make, having someone who has your best interest in mind is incredibly important. If you are thinking of taking the plunge into new home ownership, contact The Mark Faris Team today and see how we can help get you into the home of your dreams and go “Full Out For You!”