FAQ for Home Buyers

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Should I have a home inspection done before purchasing or selling a home?

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A home purchase for many people is the largest single investment they will make. Knowing as much a about your potential new home is part of your due diligence. Getting a home inspection gives you valuable information you can use to make a final decision about a home and may identify repairs, deferred maintenance and safety issues. 

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For sellers a pre-listing inspection may uncover areas of concern for potential buyers. The inspection report can give you information needed to make repairs before hand so there is no hindrance with the sell of your home.

 

What should I look for in a home inspector?

 

The most qualified home inspectors have spent years servicing, inspecting, remodeling and accessing property damages in homes. Professionals with this experience can have the best knowledge of the workmanship that went in to constructing the home and how individual components affect the performance of the entire system of the home during its lifespan. You want the knowledge and experience of a home service professional who knows the interior as well as exterior stresses that a home can undergo.

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What does the home inspector look for when they are inspecting?

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An inspection includes a visual examination of the building. During a standard inspection, the inspector evaluates and reports the condition of the foundation, grading, roof, roof structure, interior/exterior walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, fireplace/chimney, electrical systems, heating equipment, cooling equipment (temperature permitting), plumbing system, water heating equipment and built-in kitchen appliances. Items that are visible and accessible by normal means are included in the report.

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Inspectors licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) are required to comply with the TREC Standards of Practice when inspections are performed for a prospective buyer or prospective seller.

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A home inspector does not pass or fail a home, but only describes it's current condition and reports the items that are deficient.

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At what point in the process should I have Falcon Inspections come out to inspect the home?

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As soon as you have an agreed upon purchase contract with the seller. Having the inspection completed soon after the purchase contract is agreed upon allows time for the inspection to take place and the inspector to complete the report so you have time to request any needed repairs before your option period expires.

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How much does a home inspection cost?

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It can depend on several factors such as the size of the home, whether it's on a concrete slab or crawl space foundation, what types of optional systems you may need inspected such as a pool, private water source, septic system etc. For the typical home, based on an average 2500 square foot size, the cost is around $400.00 without optional systems. We would be glad to have you call us and discuss your inspection needs.

 

How Long does a home inspection take? 

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On average a home inspection can take 2-4 hours depending on the size of the home. 

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Should I attend the inspection?

 

It is not necessary for you to be present for the home inspection, but it is recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly as you learn about the condition of the home, what home inspectors look for, how the homes systems work, and how to maintain them. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you’ve seen the property first-hand through the home inspector’s eyes.

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