Buying

Selection and Inspection


Home Selection Checklist

As you and your agent look at the many homes for sale, it’s easy to forget features. Use this chart to record things you like and don’t like. Right click and save the image below to your computer. You can then print it for later use.


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Property Checklist

This list is for you and your agent to make notes on while looking round a property. It prompts you to ask questions and helps you remember more details about the property once you have left. Right click the chart image and save it to your computer. You can then print it for later use.




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Home Inspections, Surveys & Checks

A home inspection… is done by a certified building inspector or a home engineer, it is when they check the home out for defects (they are looking for what is wrong with the property) they usually check slab to roof and everything in between, such as plumbing, electrical, appliances, although they will not move furniture or know what is between walls.

A home survey… defines the property lines, it is the actual land (real estate) that is included with the home. It is carried out by a surveyor.

A home check… is done after the inspection to make sure the repairs are completed that were found by the inspector. It is commissioned by a prospective buyer.


Home Inspection

It’s an excellent idea to include a contingency in your contract that you first have a good report from a home inspector. The American Society of Home Inspectors monitors home inspection standards, so check and see if your home inspector is a member. This inspection may cost you $200-$1,000. A realistic estimate of unseen repairs could be well worth the home inspection price if you find costly repairs.

A home inspection is not an appraisal. It’s an actual evaluation of the structural and mechanical condition of the property. Go with the inspector and expect the total time to be between 2 and 4 hours. It’s your opportunity to find what needs to be replaced or repaired, ask for suggestions, and get a realistic idea of what these will cost. The inspection should include evaluations of: foundations, doors and windows, roof, plumbing and electrical systems, heating and air conditioning systems, ceilings, walls, and floors, insulation, and ventilation.

Having a home inspection report can open your eyes to the true condition of your dream home. It can be your way out of a purchase agreement and may be a tool to get the seller to pay for necessary repairs.


Land Survey

A survey is performed by a licensed land surveyor. This is also required by the Lender, Title Insurance Company, and you. The surveyor measures the land and where any structures are located on that land.

These measurements guarantee that structures not belonging to the property are properly identified. Also, structures such as fences, driveways, and storage sheds are identified and not encroaching into any public areas such as utility easements and any other adjoining properties

A survey will actually show you what land you own with your property and where your property lines are.

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Wood-Destroying Organism Report

The wood destroying organism report or Termite Report as it is commonly called is also required by lenders and is vitally important to you, the Buyer. This report is usually performed by a licensed pest control company of your choice.

This report details any damage to the property caused by termites, fungus and any other organism that could and will destroy the structure of your home.

The wood destroying organism report will also detail the correct steps to take to rectify and problems, if found.

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