Why do I need a Home Inspection and Appraisal?

Getting a good inspector to inspect the house before buying is essential. Sellers may cover up major problem areas in the house. So it is in your best interest to get a good inspection, but the lender will most likely require one as well. The lender will not want to take risk on a house, if they are not confident that you are getting the house at a good price without any unforeseen problems (certain loans will only require a drive-by inspection).

A Quick List of Things you should know about what to expect from a Home Inspection:

• A good inspector will check the house from basement to roof, including plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical systems, roof, floors, walls, ceilings, insulation, ventilation, doors, windows, wells, septic or sewer, foundation and the visible structure of the house.
• The inspector would suggest any repairs needed.
• When considering a particular inspector, ask for at least three references and check them out.

• A reputable inspector will never offer to perform needed repairs and should not refer you to a contractor to perform such repairs.
• You can find a good inspector by getting a referral from a satisfied customer. Avoid referrals from anyone who has a financial interest in the sale going through.
• The cost of an inspection varies with the area. It may start from $100 and go up to $400 or even more at times.
• Be sure to ask the inspector about their liability insurance coverage including "errors and omissions" (E & O) or malpractice insurance that covers inspector negligence.
• Ask for a written report within a day or two from the inspector.
• Make sure that you accompany the inspector during inspection. The main advantage of this is that you’d learn a few maintenance tips.

Do your homework before you accompany the inspector. Use the checklist below to identify any problem areas in case your inspector overlooks them. Get a list of some inspectors/appraisers.

Checklists of things to look for when doing a self inspection of the house:

• Are there large cracks or shifts in the foundation?
• Are there leaks or watermarks around eaves and downspouts outside the house or windows and ceilings inside the house?
• Does the basement look or smell damp? Does the owner store his/her belongings everywhere but on the basement floor?
• Is the house tightly sealed? Are there drafts from any windows, doors, attic areas or crawl spaces? How much are the energy bills?
• Does the drainage lead away from the house and appear to be in good condition? Do soggy spots on the lawn exist? Are any trees too close to the house or look to be unhealthy or dead?
• What is the condition of the roof?
• Are there a lot of nail pops inside the house or do the floors creak or give in when I walk on them?
• Is the water clear and odor free? How is the water pressure? Are there unusual noises when the plumbing is active?
• Are there 3-pronged safety outlets or are appliances plugged in with adapters or extension cord? Do the lights flicker?
• Is a piece of furniture sitting in an unusual place hiding a stain or hole in the carpet?

Appraisal/Valuation

Legally, you are required to carry out an appraisal of the house, before you apply for mortgage. Even banks insist on valuation of property.

An Appraisal (or Valuation) is inspection of the house to determine its value, so that the lender can assess how much it may lend. It is not a survey and is usually paid by the buyer who receives the copy of the report. Valuation is limited compared to a survey; it also identifies areas that require more detailed inspection by a specialist.

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Tel: 310-285-7515
Fax: 310-271-9204

301 N. Canon Drive,
Suite 215,
Beverly Hills CA
90210

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