Every buyer has the right to inspect a home before settlement. Yet with the average cost of a Philadelphia home inspection coming in at just over $400, buyers may be hesitant to spend the money, especially on a newer home. Having a professional walk through a home to document potential issues can benefit home buyers immensely, and it can actually help save money in the long run while also limiting the potential for buyer’s remorse when you’re purchasing a Philadelphia home.

Support for Seller Repair Requests

When you walk through a house, you may notice loose roof shingles or a dripping faucet in need of repair. As you move on to serious negotiations and work toward settlement, buyers have the opportunity to address their concerns about the home. The best negotiating tool with regard to repair requests is an independent home inspection report. When hiring a home inspector, look for a certified professional. The Pennsylvania Residential Real Estate Transfers Law sets forth guidelines that home inspectors must follow, including following a code of conduct, maintaining insurance against errors and attending ongoing professional education.

Find Potential Issues Prior to Sale

Most home buyers will readily admit that they’re not as knowledgeable as they would like to be about everything that can go wrong with a home. For example, many buyers can’t recognize a shifting foundation or evidence of water damage. A home inspector serves as an additional resource to assist buyers and prevent them from missing a problem with a home. Even properties being purchased “as is” benefit from a home inspection, because it allows buyers to factor project repair and renovations expenses into their final offer price.

Other Inspections to Consider

In addition to a basic home inspection, Philadelphia home buyers should also consider radon and termite inspections, two common problems that may be found in local homes. Although radon is found in many homes across the country, the issue can usually be alleviated with the installation of a remediation system. Termites can also cause significant damage, so it’s a good idea to schedule a wood infestation inspection in addition to a regular home inspection before settlement.

By arming prospective home buyers with as much knowledge as possible, professional home inspections alleviate some of the stress associated with home buying. Even if no large issues are discovered, the peace of mind provided by an independent inspector may be invaluable to home buyers.

Want to learn more about the home-buying process? Get up to speed with these resources for home-buyers.

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