1. Should I have a Home Inspection before buying?
It is to your advantage to learn as much about the condition of the
house, town house or condominium before
the purchase. A qualified home inspector is trained to assess the
overall condition of the house and provide you with a detailed report
pointing out the positive aspects of the dwelling, as well as the needed corrections.
2. Would it benefit a seller to have a home inspection?
A professional home inspection is valuable to home sellers as well. By getting an inspection done before a seller puts their home on the market,
the seller can be better prepared to address and correct items that could bring more profit to the sale of their home.
3. What does a Home Inspector do?
As an inspector, I provide my customers with a detailed, unbiased
evaluation of the house from the foundation to the roof. It is very easy
for you, the buyer, to overlook a potentially expensive problem during
the excitement of buying and making plans to move in.
Thus the need for a qualified
inspector to evaluate the structure, electrical and mechanical systems.
Items that need replacement or repair will be noted. The estimated life
of mechanical systems will be noted as well as the estimated average
replacement cost. I also note the good features of the house . I give my
customers tips on maintenance that can increase the life of the items in
the house.
4. Do I get a written report on the condition of the house?
Yes, I will provide you, the customer, with a computer generated report
detailing everything inspected.
At the conclusion of the inspection you will be given the opportunity to
review the written report. This will give both you and the inspector
time to address any concerns before leaving the house. Remember, the
inspector is working for you, the buyer, so don't hesitate to ask
questions. A good inspector will be happy to address them.
5. Should I accompany the Inspector during the Inspection process?
As a professional home inspector, I encourage my customers to accompany
me throughout the inspection. Of course, you may not choose to go
through the attic or enter the crawl space under the house. Accompanying
the inspector provides a great opportunity to address questions. It also
affords me the opportunity to cover items not in the report. For
example, how to re-finish hardwood floors.
6. How long does the Inspection take?
The average inspection generally requires from 2-1/2 to 4
hours. The time required depends, in part, on the size of the house. For
example, a two-bedroom bungalow would normally not require as much time
as an eighty year old four bedroom farmhouse. Another factor are the
questions asked by the customer. I always attempt to answer any and all
questions.
7. How much does the inspection cost?
The cost for a home inspection is based on the size, type of dwelling and selling price. Please see list below. Payment is required at the time of inspection.
8. Is the Inspection Report accepted by FHA, VA and Maryland Bond?
Yes, as a qualified professional home inspector, the report I provide to you meets the requirements of these lending institutions.
9. Is a Home Inspection and an Appraisal the same thing?
No, a home inspection evaluates the condition of the structure and
systems within that structure. An appraisal determines the fair market
value of the structure based on size, location, and recent sales of like
structures in a geographical area.
Inspection Requirements
To properly inspect a structure all electrical, plumbing, heating and
air conditioning systems must be operational; i.e., water and electric
must be turned on. A re-inspect charge may be assessed
if these items are inoperable when the inspection is done.
A NOTE FROM LEE WOOTTEN
Please give me a call at (410) 430-5495 or
to schedule your home
inspection. I look forward to serving you in the near future.
R. Lee Wootten
Copyright 2004 by Wootten Home
Inspections, LLC. All Rights Reserved
