Never Waive a Home Inspection

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Waiving a Home Inspection vs. Waiving the Home Inspection Contingency

Never waive a home inspection. Not ever! In today’s competitive market it is normal to hear that waiving a home inspection tends to help sweeten the offer and improve your chances of winning. Let’s make sure that we know the difference between waiving the inspection vs waiving the home inspection contingency. When you agree to waive the home inspection contingency you are agreeing to accept the property in “as is” condition. (This strategy should be discussed in more depth with your Realtor or a Real Estate Attorney. There are many moving parts and not all buyers are positioned financially to do this.)

You should still have a home inspection even if you can not use it for remedies or negotiating. Why? Because should something present itself that makes you want to walk away you technically still can. Also, you can use the findings to prepare a “to do” list for your new property.

A home inspection is a non invasive visual inspection of the property. Your home inspector will look over the house’s electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, as well as the roof, foundation, attic, and other structures, to look for any potential problems. These inspections also involve a thorough examination of the home’s appliances to ensure that they are in good working conditions.

The Risks Involved And Potential Costs Of Waiving A Home Inspection

If you’re trying to buy a house in a competitive market and your offers are getting rejected, you might feel compelled to take drastic actions. Remember if you waive an inspection you essentially are gambling on your purchase. At least with a proper home inspection you will be positioned better to know what to expect. The property may appear to be in good condition to the typical buyer. However what you can not see or are not trained to see is typically where trouble and expenses can arise.

You don’t want to buy a home without having it thoroughly inspected, no matter how desperately you want it. Most buyers will not be able to detect asbestos, nor would they notice symptoms of a termite infestation. Not to mention the difference in cracks in your basement walls which could really be a costly expense.

What Can a Home Inspection Do For You?

The Columbus housing market is hot! And if your working with an agent that referred Grand View Property Inspections you are easily working with one of the best in the city. However it is easy to get frustrated. And you might not be able to see or think properly when you’re in the middle of a bidding war.

Just remember that you can lose a lot of money if you skip an inspection. Having an inspection can bring to light some issues that might be immediate. And it can provide you with an out should you need it. A home inspection can also help you prepare and budget for home maintenance. An article on cnbc.com showed that 3 out of 4 new home buyers face unexpected repair costs in the first year.

Avoid buyers remorse and instead prepare for upcoming expenses that come with home ownership by getting a quality home inspection.

If you waive your inspection contingency you incur full financial liability for whatever condition the property is in and whatever repairs are required. Sometimes the solution is straightforward and affordable. However, if your difficulties are severe, what you don’t know could add thousands, if not tens of thousands, to the total cost of purchasing the property.

Final Words

Ultimately if you need to waive the inspection contingency to win the bidding war you should still have an inspection done. Repeat after me… Never Waive A Home Inspection! The inspection should be included in your contract for “informational purposes”. Doing so will allow you to have a general idea of what to expect in regards to maintenance and safety concerns once you take possession of the property. Having an inspection also provides you an out should something substantial present itself.  As always consult with your agent or attorney as everyones situation is different. The only thing that does not change is your need to have an inspection done.

Mold Issues May Not Be Black Or White

Mold Inspections Columbus Ohio

 

As a homeowner, some problems are top of mind: a leaky roof, a broken window, your flooding basement, or the presence of mold. However, chronic problems sneak up on homeowners. Homeowners are often distracted by bigger more obvious issues at hand. So naturally, we don’t consider ongoing or chronic situations with the same urgency as we give “in your face” problems. Mold issues may not be black or white. Choosing to focus on obvious black mold while ignoring chronic white mold poses real problems. Black mold proves easy to see with the naked eye. Chronic white mold often requires special lighting to be detected.

First, the situation is nobody’s fault. We are conditioned to allow chronic white mold issues to go overlooked while we focus on clearing or cleaning black mold issues. Of course, we need mold remediation firms. They provide a valuable service. But so long as white mold issues are not the primary focus, we will continue to be plagued by chronic problems. Black mold dominates. If you look at insurance companies, mold remediation firms, mold-related advertising, real estate inspections, tenant-landlord disputes, lawsuits, plumbers, HVAC contractors, home builders, mold guidelines and standards, mold training and certifications, allergists, naturopaths, wellness coaches, mold testing, and mold products. You’ll see what I mean.

How do black mold and white mold issues differ?

Black mold issues generally occur in moist situations. Water wets organic material in our home and then, mold grows and spreads on these wet materials. We easily see when drywall or flooring is wet, just as we can easily see the resulting dark-colored black mold. Since the homeowner easily sees the issue, they typically leap into action and work to fix the problem right away. On the other hand, white mold issues generally occur when high humidity keeps an area just damp enough to enable mold to colonize certain materials in that zone of the house. That area stays humid during the same seasons year after year. Small spots of white mold spread and merge to create a mold “forest.” In this situation, it’s more difficult to see when an area is moist.

The lighter-colored white molds don’t register visually, either. Unnoticed and unaddressed, this chronic issue adversely affects the house and health. Unfortunately, chronic humidity-driven issues prove difficult for homeowners to address. From a leak in a dryer vent providing just enough moisture behind the dryer. To a bathroom exhaust that vents into the attic. These areas can remain just damp enough to allow a population of white mold to establish. And it will establish on almost every surface in that area. This can go unchecked for years. Often, humans simply cannot see white mold without the use of ultraviolet light. Because of this white molds can continue to spread and intensify. Without testing any potential mold one can not know the type, effect, or toxicity. This is true no matter if the mold is black, white, green, red or any color you could imagine.If you think you have a problem with mold contact me so that I can help!
Grand View Property Inspections is now Heart State Inspections

5 Tips Every Home Buyer Should Know

Home Inspection Columbus Ohio

5 Tips Every Home Buyer Should Know

Purchasing a home is one of the most important purchases in life. It carries with it both financial and psychological weight, whether you’re buying your first house or looking to move up into that dream place; there are ground rules for success when conducting this transaction which must be understood so as not to make any poor decisions along the way. Therefore we compiled a list of the 5 Tips Every Home Buyer Should Know from polling local Columbus Ohio real estate agents.

A bad decision can have devastating consequences while making wise choices only enhances how good things turn out later down the road.

When buying a home it’s often best to use a systematic approach, as this can help you be sure that all decisions are based on information and reason. Buying property is an emotional process- don’t let your emotions take control!

Five Ground Rules to Follow When Buying a Home or 5 Tips Every Home Buyer Should Know:

They’re not hard, but they need some attention for new buyers who may be unfamiliar with the process or uncertain of what is best for them:

1. Find Financing Before You Start Finding Your Home

2. You’re Buying Into The Community, Not Just The Home

3. Make Sure Your First Offer Is Fair For All Parties

4. Always Remember Your Families Safety & Finances

5. Don’t Alienate The Sellers Of The Home

Find Financing Before You Start Finding Your Home

Losing out on the perfect home is often due to not being able to secure funding. While this desire for a new place can be understandable, it’s important you line up your financing before starting shopping around–especially since there are so many advantages in securing an approved loan ahead of time!

When buying a new house, it is important to take time and research the various types of mortgages that are available. There are more than just 15 or 30-year options these days! Potential home buyers need to know how each type works in order to figure out which is best for them before they start their search.

You’re Buying Into The Community, Not Just The Home

It is important to consider the entire community, not just one house. This is important because it can be hard for people moving into an unfamiliar area to know what they’ll like about living there without considering all aspects of their surroundings – from schools and neighborhoods close by as well as the distance to work or shopping options.

We all know that location is key when it comes to real estate, and no mistake should be made. Whether you’re buying a house or looking for your dream home in the right area–location matters most! Potential buyers can learn about different neighborhoods simply by driving around town as well as talking with locals who live there already.

Make Sure Your First Offer Is Fair For All Parties

When buying a house, it’s important to make sure that you’re not overpaying or underbidding. One of the best ways for buyers is by comparing their offers with what are known as “comps” – similarly priced homes in an area that have already sold recently.

Trying lowballing on deals can backfire if similar houses weren’t brought up during negotiations so this should be taken into account before making any first advances towards sellers.

Always Remember Your Families Safety & Finances

The two questions that haunt every home buyer are:

Is this home safe for my family?

Is this home a safe purchase for my family?

When it comes to knowing if a home is safe for your family, and your finances, nobody is better than a professional home inspector.

Home inspectors help you make sure the home is safe. You can then buy with confidence, knowing that there are no hidden dangers lurking in the walls or under the floorboards.

A home inspector will examine your property from top to bottom and identify any issues that need correcting before you move in. From checking for structural integrity to looking for pests or old wiring, a home inspection will give you peace of mind when buying your dream house. It’s also an opportunity to learn about what needs doing on this new property – so it’s really worth paying attention! If you’re ready to schedule one now feel free to click this link here!

Don’t Alienate The Sellers Of The Home

Real estate transactions are always tough, but they can be made smoother if the buyer and seller have a good working relationship. It is important for buyers to avoid alienating their sellers by nitpicking every little detail during inspection or negotiations; this will only cause resentment between them which may lead you down an unfortunate path of bad deals in future sales situations. A successful realtor knows how crucial it is to keep positive vibes alive through all aspects of these processes.

 

Grand View Property Inspections is now Heart State Inspections.

Morrow County Home Inspector

Morrow County Home Inspector - Grand View Property Inspections

3 Reasons Why Heart State Inspections is the Top Choice For Franklin County Ohio Homebuyers

#1 – WE ARE LOCAL

Heart State Inspections is a local and family-owned home inspection company. We are a Morrow County Ohio Home Inspector and we serve all surrounding counties as well. Local means better customer service from start to finish because we care deeply about our neighbors and our community. You get a certified professional home inspector that is based right here in central Ohio. An inspection from Heart State Inspections can not be beat!

#2 – WE ARE AN UP AND COMING LEADER

We’re an up and coming leader within the central Ohio home inspection industry. It’s our main priority to serve our customers by providing outstanding competency and integrity in our experience with you. Education is the foundation of our organization. We empower homebuyers to purchase with confidence and Realtors trust our unbiased inspections.

#3 – ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INSPECTION

We promise to go above and beyond the State Standards of Practice! Our inspections not only cover what the state of Ohio requires but they also provide information and safety concerns as if our family was moving in to the property. We want you to feel confident with your purchase and to allow your new home to be a place of safety and security. Let us be your Morrow County Home Inspector.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION WITH US

You can expect a thorough, well-executed home inspection, followed by a thorough and exceptional home inspection report that is stocked with purposeful images and useful information which will allow you to make the most informed decision on your potential new home. Not only are we professionally trained we also have a background in hospitality. You are our main focus… The home will tell us it’s story and it is our job to tell that story to you. Our experience is just the beginning, learn more about us here.

If you’re a Realtor, and we have yet to work together, let’s schedule a meeting. It only takes one meeting or one inspection with us to realize why we belong on your top 3 referral list.

Fairfield County Home Inspector

.Fairfield County Home Inspections - Grand View Property Inspections

Heart State Inspections is the Top Choice For A Fairfield County Home Inspector

#1 – WE ARE LOCAL

Heart State Inspections is a local and family-owned home inspection company. We are a Fairfield County Ohio Home Inspector that also serves most of the surrounding counties as well. Local means better customer service from start to finish. We care deeply about our neighbors and our community. When you choose us you get a certified professional home inspector that is based right here in Central Ohio. We have inspected many homes in the cities of Lancaster, Pickerington, Carrol, Amanda and Baltimore.

#2 – WE ARE AN UP AND COMING INDUSTRY LEADER

We are a leader within the central Ohio home inspection industry. It is our main priority to serve our customers by providing outstanding competency and integrity in our experience with you. Education is the foundation of our organization. We empower homebuyers to purchase with confidence and Realtors trust our unbiased inspections.

#3 – ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INSPECTION

We promise to go above and beyond the State of Ohio Standards of Practice! Our inspections cover what the State of Ohio requires. More importantly they also provide information and safety concerns as if our family was moving in to the property. We want you to feel confident with your purchase and to allow your new home to be a place of safety and security. Let us be your Madison County Home Inspector.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION WITH US

First, you can expect a thorough, well-executed home inspection. Secondly, you will receive a thorough home inspection report that is stocked with purposeful images and useful information. This will allow you to make the most informed decision on your new home. We are licensed by the State of Ohio. More importantly we also have a background in hospitality meaning you are our main focus. The home will tell us it’s story and it is our job to tell that story to you in easy to understand terminology. Our experience is just the beginning, learn more about us here.

If you’re a Realtor, and we have yet to work together, let’s schedule a meeting. It only takes one meeting or one inspection with us to realize why we belong on your top 3 referral list.

Image Source: Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=92034543

Franklin County Home Inspector

 

Heart State Inspections - Columbus Ohio Reviews

3 Reasons Why Heart State Inspections is the Top Choice For Franklin County Ohio Homebuyers

#1 – WE ARE LOCAL

Heart State Inspections is a local and family-owned home inspection company. We are a Franklin County Ohio Home Inspector and we serve all surrounding counties as well. Local means better customer service from start to finish because we care deeply about our neighbors and our community. You get a certified professional home inspector that is based right here in central Ohio. An inspection from Heart State can not be beat!

#2 – WE ARE AN UP AND COMING LEADER

We’re an up and coming leader within the central Ohio home inspection industry. It’s our main priority to serve our customers by providing outstanding competency and integrity in our experience with you. Education is the foundation of our organization. We empower homebuyers to purchase with confidence and Realtors trust our unbiased inspections.

#3 – ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INSPECTION

We promise to go above and beyond the State Standards of Practice! Our inspections not only cover what the state of Ohio requires but they also provide information and safety concerns as if our family was moving in to the property. We want you to feel confident with your purchase and to allow your new home to be a place of safety and security. Let us be your Franklin County Home Inspector.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A HOME INSPECTION WITH US

You can expect a thorough, well-executed home inspection, followed by a thorough and exceptional home inspection report that is stocked with purposeful images and useful information which will allow you to make the most informed decision on your potential new home. Not only are we professionally trained we also have a background in hospitality. You are our main focus… The home will tell us it’s story and it is our job to tell that story to you. Our experience is just the beginning, learn more about us here.

If you’re a Realtor, and we have yet to work together, let’s schedule a meeting. It only takes one meeting or one inspection with us to realize why we belong on your top 3 referral list.

Proper Grading Around A Home

Proper Grade Around Your Home

Spring is among us and landscaping is now on many home owners minds. Also what should be thought about is what is proper grading around a home? This is an important issue because if land grading is not done properly, runoff can be directed toward your foundation. This unwanted water can eventually compromise the foundations integrity.

If you own a home, you may eventually find yourself having to do some land grading near your house’s foundation to correct drainage issues. Poor drainage resulting in leaky basements or foundation issues often stems from having an insufficient slope away from the foundation. To do land grading properly, you must first know how much slope you need to have away from the house foundation.

Most basement waterproofing experts and home inspectors recommend that a good slope to aim for when grading land extending out from a house foundation is 6 inches for the first 10 feet (a “slope” of 5 percent).

  • String or Rope – at least 12 feet long.
  • 2 stakes (labeled A and B), and something to pound them into the ground with
  • A string level (that is, a type of level designed to fit on a piece of string)
  • A tape measure

Do You Already Have the Correct Proper Grade Around Your Home?

Using the above supplies, take the following steps to determine if sufficient slope currently exists:

  1. Tie one end of the string loosely around stake A.
  2. Pound stake A into the ground right near your foundation
  3. Slide the string down stake A, so that it rests at ground level
  4. Tie the other end of the string loosely around stake B.
  5. Now measure out 10 feet down the slope from stake A, and pound stake B into the ground there (if there is excess string, wrap it around stake B). The string between the stakes should be fairly taut, but still adjustable.
  6. Slide the string up or down stake B, to make it roughly level.
  7. Put the string level on the string, at about the mid-point between the stakes.
  8. Now adjust the string up or down on stake B, to make it exactly level.
  9. Measure the distance from the string on stake B to the ground. Is the measurement of 6 inches or more?

Do You Need to Re-Grade the Land?

The slope measurement you just took will determine whether or not you need to re-grade this land:

  • If the measurement is 6 inches or more, you have a perfect slope—no need for land grading here.
  • If not, you will need to re-grade the land by adding fill near the foundation and tamping it down; after which you can check the new slope by repeating the steps above.

You can always hire a landscape professional to assist you with proper grading around a home if you don’t want to do this yourself.

When purchasing a new home hire Heart State Inspections to do your Home Inspection and you can be sure that the grading around your new home will be checked for you, among the plethora of other items that are included in your home inspection. Heart State Inspections serves the central Ohio area and beyond. Schedule your inspection today or call 614-769-5605.