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4 Essential Home Inspection Tips for First Time Home Buyers

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a record 47% of homes sold were purchased by first-time buyers.

A professional home inspection by HomeMD Inspection Services in Louisville not only educates buyers on the condition of the home but can minimize costly surprises down the road.

To help ensure that first-time buyers make an educated decision when purchasing a home and get the best price possible, follow these easy tips for your Louisville Kentucky home inspection.

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1. Inspect the Inspector.?Only hire a home inspector with an excellent reputation and credentials. Ask how long the company has been in business, ask about specific formal training and ongoing education the inspector has and verify the inspector carries professional liability insurance also known as ?Errors & Omissions? (E&O). If the company doesn’t carry this insurance, it could indicate a poor track record or lack of experience. ?Make sure you feel comfortable with their communication style – this will be important when they are discussing your home inspection report.

2. Ask for a sample of a report.?The credentials of the inspection company and the quality of the final inspection report will be important. A poorly prepared report without pictures or clear, concise details addressing all the various systems and accessible elements of the home is less likely to be taken seriously by a home seller. View our sample report here.

3. Ask about additional services.?It’s hard for first-time home buyers to know what they need, so be sure to ask what additional services the company offers. If the home you are considering has been vacant for an extended period of time, a professional home inspection company may offer ancilliary services that they can advise you about for that type of property. Generally, the company will offer you a multiple services discount as well as the added convenience of only having to attend one inspection appointment. Other common services offered by home inspectors are termite inspections, mold testing, water testing and radon testing.

4. Go along on the inspection. ?A home inspection is not simply a laundry list of what is wrong with the home. In addition to documenting issues and needed repairs that may exist, a professional home inspectorwill also show you how to operate the various systems in the home and provide tips on improving energy efficiency and maintaining the home in general. And being present during the inspection will make the final written report that much more meaningful.

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