Home Inspection

Findings faults in a home doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy it. But it will help you to know the type of repair costs that should be anticipated, and sellers often will make adjustments in their asking price on the basis of problems discovered in an inspection.

Before you buy, hire an independent home inspector to verify the physical condition of the house. Home inspection fees can run anywhere from $250 to $400 dollars. Higher prices could be caused by an unusual properties of the home, extended travel time or extra in-depth inspections. But the home inspection can usually help you negotiate a fair price and save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

When choosing an inspector:

• check out the company's reputation
• find out the educational background of the inspector
• is the company a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors?
• find out what kind of report the inspector provides
• check out what is included in the standard inspection
  (exterior walls and roofs, foundations, garage, interior - walls, ceiling, floors, doors, windows, electrical, plumbing and heating systems, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, attic)