The Smart Buyer's Guide to Home Inspections in Auburn, AL

When it comes to buying a home in Auburn, AL, there are a few key things to keep in mind when it comes to home inspections. A home inspection is a crucial step in the buying process, as it helps to ensure that you're making an informed decision when it comes to your purchase. In this post, we'll take a closer look at why you should get your home inspected, what the difference is between a general home inspection and a home appraisal, and what other types of home inspections are available.

Why should I get my home inspected?

Buying a home is a significant financial commitment, and it's important to make sure that you're getting the best deal possible. One way to do this is by getting a home inspection. Lenders may require you to get a home inspection as part of the terms of your loan, but even if they don't, it's a good idea to have one done. A home inspection can reveal any number of issues with the condition of your property, such as faulty wiring, cracks in the foundation, or termites. These problems could present you with a headache, inconvenience, or even enormous costs down the road.

Not only do some lenders require home inspections, but prospective buyers also have the legal right to have the home inspected prior to purchase. Getting your future home inspected by a professional home inspector for potential flaws is essential to ensure your purchase is the right decision at the right price during negotiations. Get your home inspected, and make an informed decision.

What is the difference between a general home inspection and home appraisal?

Home inspections: A general home inspection educates the buyer solely regarding the home’s current condition on that day. Home inspectors look for problems, minor and major, that could cost the buyer time and money. They also look for safety hazards. Examples of issues with the home could include, but are not limited to:

• Aesthetics: The home inspector may point out problems you’ve already noticed, such as chipped paint, a cracked driveway, or sticky windows or doors.
• Electrical wiring: An inspector looks for potential fire hazards, such as: aluminum wiring, knob and tube wiring, or any wires, gauges or connectors that are not up to code and could be safety issues.
• Plumbing: An inspection may reveal minor problems with faucets or drainage problems leading to dampness in the basement. An inspection also might inform you a big expense is forthcoming, like the need to replace an old septic system or water heater.
• Structural elements: There may be visible (or invisible) flaws, cracks or damage to the foundation of the home. You may need to get a second opinion from a structural engineer to determine the severity of the foundation issues, another potential expense. Walls, ceilings, basement, garage, floors, attic - all interior and exterior elements are inspected for quality.
• Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC): Is your HVAC in good condition? Will it need replacing any time soon?

Home appraisals: An appraisal of the home is an estimate of its current value. Sellers can benefit from having the most accurate picture of their home’s worth. By getting an appraisal, they can sell their home for a reasonable asking price. Like home inspections, appraisals take into account the condition of the home. However, appraisers also look at factors in addition to condition, such as:

• Location: Are there desirable schools or other public facilities in the neighborhood?
• Curb appeal: Does the home look aesthetically pleasing from the street?
• Size of the lot and home: The bigger the property and the greater the square footage, the higher the value. More bedrooms and bathrooms also means more value.
• Comparisons: What is the cost of other comparable properties in the area?

Bottom line - An appraisal is an estimate of the overall value of the home, whereas an inspection is more focused on the home’s condition.

What are some other types of home inspections?

Roof: Roof certification is not usually covered in a general home inspection. A seller may provide roof certification to a buyer, but they may not. It’s a good idea to get your roof inspected every two years or so to give yourself peace of mind and get ahead of smaller leaks that could turn into bigger problems.

Septic: A septic system inspection is important if the property you're considering buying is not connected to the city's sewer system. A septic system inspection will ensure that the system is in good working condition and that there are no issues that could be costly to fix in the future.

Mold: A mold inspection is important if you're buying a home in Auburn, AL, as the area is known for its high humidity levels. A mold inspection will identify any potential mold issues, which could be costly to fix and could also be a health hazard.

In conclusion, getting your home inspected is a crucial step in the buying process. It can help you identify any potential issues with the property and make an informed decision. Remember, the difference between a general home inspection and a home appraisal is that an inspection is more focused on the home's condition, while an appraisal is an estimate of the overall value of the home. Lastly, there are other types of home inspections like roof, septic and mold inspection that could give you peace of mind and protect you from future costly repairs.

If you're considering buying a home in Auburn, AL, reach out to us for a list of recommended home inspectors. Our team of experts has years of experience in the Auburn, AL real estate market and can help you find the perfect home for you and your family. We can also assist you in the home buying process, answering any questions you may have and guiding you through the process. Contact us today to start your journey towards homeownership in Auburn, AL.