Buying or selling a home can be a “hair-raising” experience. This is because making the right purchase, getting a loan, bargaining with the seller during the contract phase etc, all require a lot of research and dedication from both sides – the buyer and the seller. For most of us, buying a home is our largest investment, and for this reason, it is necessary to put everything we’ve got in it to make it a successful and stress-free one. There are many errors made by the buyers and the seller, which we need to avoid to have a successful transaction.
Therefore, below are some of the common errors made by both side.
Seller – not getting it inspected before listing
The mistake most sellers make is not getting their home inspected before listing it. Sure, you can avoid this and wait for the buyer’s inspector to do the inspection. But, it would be wise to invest the money to have your own inspection done in advance of listing so you are fully aware of all the problem areas that might exist. You could invest in getting the issues repaired or, if the problems are minor in nature, you could simply disclose them when you decide to list. It will give you peace of mind knowing what to expect before you are forced to negotiate with a buyer and his/her agent.
Buyer & Seller – Not hiring an experienced inspector
Another mistake made by both side sis not hiring an experienced and certified home inspector. He is not hired only to look for the strength and weaknesses of a home but also, in as sense, to orientate you on how to maintain the home based on his findings in his inspection report that he provides you with. For this reason, it is necessary to hire an experienced and a certified one to get the most out of your inspection.
Buyer – Not present during the inspection
It’s not necessary but it’s a good idea to be around during the inspection. It will take a couple hours of time done right. The reality is, most home buyers are not experts at identifying problems areas with a home’s foundation, electrical wiring or drainage systems. Walking the property and the home with an expert inspector will give you confidence in the final decision you are about to make based in his findings. You are in a position to ask questions based on improvements and upgrades you are considering to determine if they can be done given the current state of the home. He can guide you to the best practices to ensure you follow through successfully.
Buyer – Not working on the inspection report – Inspection reports are the written documentation of all the strengths and weaknesses of the home. It will let you know the main priority areas that need to be addressed if you decide to purchase it. It will also give you a step-by-step process to follow to complete the things that are most important first. If a buyer neglects to address what is found by the inspector, it could wind up costing significantly more in repairs down the road if you procrastinate.
Seller – Not preparing the home for inspection
Another mistake usually made by the seller is not preparing the home for the inspection. Preparation requires you to do all the necessary cleaning and opening all necessary doors for the inspector. An unprepared home can be so irritating to the inspector because it makes him do unnecessary work. You should ensure all areas are easily accessible and there is no clutter around HVAC, plumbing or electrical systems.
A home inspection is a vital component seen as a true investment by all parties when done successfully. It is a minimal cost that will provide a strong return on investment when followed. Be sure to NOT neglect what we have mentioned above and you are well on your way to a smoother home purchasing process.
If you have need for a home inspection in the Albany area, or even need a mold assessment done based on identified dampness in your home, please give Bald Eagle Inspection Services an opportunity to earn your business today.