Making the Most of Your Pre-Purchase Inspection

Buying a new home is an exciting time, especially if it’s your first big purchase. Whether it’s by yourself or with a new spouse, this time can be a whirlwind for many first-time buyers!

Regardless if you’re buying a brand-new house or an existing property, there’s good reason to spend some extra time getting to know every nook and cranny of your home before the final walk-through.

The more you know, the greater the likelihood of detecting AND solving problems to be addressed before your closing date.

That’s why we always recommend a pre-purchase inspection. Even new construction isn’t perfect, and we consistently help buyers and builders fix issues that we uncover. Remember, new doesn’t alleviate the need for review.

Buyers who waive their right to a home inspection may face costly repairs and expenses down the road. Without a home inspection, you are basically buying the home “as is”, flaws and all. No refunds or exchanges.

Do you really want to see one of the happiest times of your life derailed by a devastating issue or potentially costly repair?

Protect Yourself as a Home Buyer

By declining the home inspection, buyers lose the chance to ask the seller to make repairs or shed light on existing problems, even if the seller is aware of them.

After the sale, the new homeowner assumes all responsibility, including problem areas that may have not been immediately visible prior to selling

Your pre-purchase inspection may look different depending on the nature of your home or building. Consider your goals and concerns, and also what will give you peace of mind.

A great inspection group will offer a wide variety of services, and can customize the inspection based on your needs. Ask us about our wide range of services.

With our tips below, you can move into your new home with confidence.

Four Tips for the Pre-Purchase Inspection

1. Give Yourself Plenty of Time

If you’re going to schedule an inspection, make sure you choose a day and time that you can commit to. Don’t rush the process and don’t take shortcuts.

Hire high quality inspectors, like us, who know what they’re doing. A few more dollars upfront can save you big money down the road.

2. Schedule Wisely

Schedule your walk-through 3–7 days before your closing date. Anticipate a few days between the final walk-through and closing date for last minute repairs to be resolved.

If you’re a procrastinator, be sure to make this a priority, as you don’t want to be racing the clock with something this important.

3. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to speak up, since you hired a professional for a reason.

While you should respect your inspector’s time and knowledge if something doesn’t look or feel right to you, you can still ask about it. A good inspector wants you to understand the ins and outs of your property.

4. Be Firm

If something’s not right, insist on it being fixed.

Don’t settle for a home that you’re not comfortable with before moving in or you’ll undoubtedly regret it later. Take care of everything beforehand and you can save yourself from a lot of stress.

Homebuyers should never forgo their right to a pre-purchase inspection. You can hammer out any last-minute details and remove any doubts or stress you or your loved ones may have with a pre-purchase inspection.

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, nearly 90% of homeowners experience increased confidence in their property after an inspection.

Don’t take the risk. Book an appointment and discover why we are Chicago’s preferred inspection group.