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Home Inspector Houston TX play an important role when it comes to real estate transactions. A real estate inspection is simply a non-invasive, visual examination of the current condition of a property, typically in relation to the prospective sale of that property. Home inspectors generally are qualified and trained to carry out such inspections. However, not all inspections are the same. Each type of inspection requires slightly different methods and techniques when carrying out the inspection process.
Home inspectors in essence, are professional appraisers that specialize in assessing the value of properties that have been put up for sale or rent. Such inspectors can be utilized to assess whether the property is in a state that precludes the possibility of obtaining a mortgage loan to pay for the total cost of the property. In such cases, the home inspector may provide guidance as to how best to raise funds to pay for the purchase.
The majority of home inspectors are employed by real estate agents or mortgage brokers and are paid for their services by the seller of the property that has been inspected. Sometimes home inspectors are employed by individual homeowners whose property is being sold. Home inspectors who are employed by larger real estate brokerage firms are generally paid on a per inspection basis.
In some instances, there are independent home inspectors that are employed by a single real estate brokerage company that specializes in certain types of real estate property. These independent inspectors may also be employed by individual sellers, or by smaller companies that specialize in a particular area of real estate. Some home inspectors work for both licensed home inspectors and independent home inspectors. In most instances, the licenses of both licensed home inspectors and independent home inspectors are provided by the corresponding state. While there are no national laws governing the licensing of home inspectors, almost all states require an agent to be a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or equivalent to be eligible for licensing.
It is important for prospective home buyers to know that a qualified and competent home inspector should be the person inspecting their property. Having a home inspection done is the best way to know the condition and quality of the building that is being considered for purchase. If the home inspector does not have any certification from a professional organization, this should always be brought to the attention of the real estate agent reviewing the home inspection report. There are many fly by night organizations that are not part of any association, and can often times charge more than the building that they are inspecting. Be sure to ask any real estate agent who will be working with the inspector any information regarding their training, certifications, and experience with specific types of homes.
As a buyer, it is crucial to know if there are defects in the home that will affect the quality of the construction of the home being considered for purchase. As stated above, the American Society of Home Inspectors is not affiliated with any one national organization; therefore, any national, regional, or local organizations that offer certification or licensing based upon the specific type of home inspection that is being considered. One of these national organizations is the ASHI. The ASHI offers courses and national seminars for both the buyer and the inspector on home inspection. Therefore, if the buyer wishes to have the inspector look at the roof, a boiler or flooring system, etc, this can all be pre-arranged prior to the home inspection taking place.
It is also very important to understand if there are any problems with the internal plumbing of a home before making an offer. Although, many buyers do not worry about the plumbing, it is imperative that a home inspector thoroughly looks into the possibility of any structural or electrical problems with the interior plumbing including the main sewer line, faucets, hot water heater, etc. If any such problems are found, the inspector should note them on the home inspection report. It is also important to note that many states require an interior plumbing inspector to be licensed in order to inspect residential homes.
The home inspector should be trained and experienced enough to inspect various systems and components of a house in order to pinpoint the exact problem that is causing the home inspection to fail. For example, an attic vent on a three-story home would typically need to be inspected as part of the routine inspection, but if there was a leak on the first floor, it would need to be documented and repaired immediately. Many inspectors also specialize in only one particular area of the home, such as electrical systems, basement systems, or plumbing. It is always recommended to get multiple quotes from different companies prior to having any work done in order to ensure that you receive the best value for your money.