In the process of closing a home sale, the buyer typically hires a home inspector to come to the house and perform a visual observation. In accordance with the state’s standards, the home inspector identifies health, safety or major mechanical issues.
Waiving the inspection — We strongly advice against waiving the inspection. Doing a Pre-Inspection before making an offer is a much better option.
Choosing an Inspector — Buyer has the right to choose their own home inspector, as long as they are licensed, bonded and insured in WA-state. Your real estate agent can recommend a couple of great inspectors.
What happens at home inspection — A home inspector will look at a house’s HVAC system, interior plumbing and electrical systems, roof, attic, floors, windows and doors, foundation, basement and structural components, then provide a written report with results. A home inspection generally takes 2-4 hours but may take more time depending on the size of the house.
Be Present — Attend the inspection so you can explore your new home in detail and ask questions as you go. This process can give you much more information than the report alone. Most home inspectors will provide answers to any questions you may have during the home inspection, so it’s a good idea to go to the inspection and hear the findings firsthand.
Completed Report — It takes 1-2 days to finish the Home Inspection Report.
Cost — $500-$700 for home inspection and $250 for sewer scope inspection. Other inspections are more expensive.
Additional Inspections — Based on the house your agent might recommend different inspections: such as sewer scope inspections, well inspection, septic inspection, etc.
No Home is Perfect — Of course, nobody’s expecting perfection. Cherry-picking small problems that are quick, easy and inexpensive to fix can kill the transaction. We are looking for major damages issues with roof, siding, furnace, etc.
Repairs — Technically the sellers are not required to fix anything, but most people are reasonable and understand that big ticket items and safety concerns are legitimate and will likely need to be addressed to ensure a sale. You should be prepared for the possibility, however, that the seller may not be inclined or financially able to make repairs.
Terminating the Agreement — If the house has many major issues and seller is refusing to make repairs, you might decide to proceed and terminate the transaction. If you approve the inspection, going back and terminating the transaction is not an option.
