Home Inspection Checklist: Five Tricks To A Smooth Home Inspection

Home inspection is a process normally performed prior to buying a house. During this time, every aspect and feature of the structure are being evaluated so as to paint a clear picture of its current condition. For the most part, it requires critical eye and keen observation so that issues such as leak, plumbing and electrical defects, roof and foundation-related problems will not be missed just before the deal is closed.

How To Conduct A Smooth Home Inspection

Identify the secrets of successfully inspecting your future residence. Below are five tricks to help you out.

1.       Decide if you are going to hire a professional. Just like enlisting the help of a stager is a choice, so is a home inspector. This is optional for all future homebuyers. Frequently though, many would choose to hire one as house inspectors have the knowledge and training to classify what critical items require urgent attention. They could easily spot the damages too which a usual buyer may tend to overlook. Assess then if you’d rather DIY (Do-It-Yourself) or employ technical assistance. Weigh the pros and cons. Be present the entire time so you’ll know what’s going on right there and then.

2.       Be systematic. A checklist itemizing the areas that need thoroughly checking would be a great help. Have a pen and notebook ready so you could take down notes after an item is checked off. In the case of prospective condominium buyers, one example is to determine if the A/C system of the Philippine condo you’re eyeing to purchase is centralized or not. 

3.       Do not be quickly discouraged with the results. A few flaws do not necessarily equate that you have to reject it right away. Communicate with the current homeowner for a desirable workaround – lower selling price, contingency clause, cash settlement. Learn the art of negotiation.

4.       Ask anything and everything about the Philippine real estate property. Do not hesitate on being vocal with your questions – what’s the history of the house, how long has it been up, how does this particular heating system works. Put all your concerns together and share them with your inspector, if you’re hiring one.

5.       Have more than one person inspect the residence.  Regardless if you’re taking on the service of a professional or you’re doing it on your own, have a friend, family or relative accompany you so you’ll be guaranteed of a second opinion.