Why Do I Need A Home Inspection?

In your excitement to buy a home, it's easy to miss a small crack in the foundation, some leaky pipes under the house, or a roof that needs to be replaced.
 The sellers worked hard to make the home look as desirable as possible, but looks don't tell the whole story. That's where your home inspection comes in.
What about inspections for sellers?
For sellers, a home inspection is also a good idea prior to listing the home for sale. An inspection can help you turn up issues ahead of time so there will be no surprises when serious buyers start inquiring. Knowing in advance means you'll be able to consider all your options – either making repairs before listing or pricing your home to account for anything you're not going to fix.
 
What does a home inspection include?
A general home inspection will evaluate the house and adjoining structures from top to bottom, inside and out, including but not limited to:
 Outside
Roof, porches, driveways, garage, drainage, retaining walls, grading, and plants or vegetation that may impact the home's condition.
Inside
Electrical and plumbing systems; foundation; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems; water heater, septic system, electrical system, windows, doors, floors, ceilings, and walls.
What a home inspection doesn't cover
The home inspector can't make any alterations in the course of inspecting a home – so there’s no digging up the ground, lifting carpets, knocking out walls, etc
·        This is a big purchase for you.  Consider being at the inspection to follow along and ask questions.
·        Also consider that a home comprises tens of thousands of parts, pieces, nooks, and crannies. An inspector will look at a representative sampling, but there's simply no way to check every single element.

 
Specialized Inspections –
When Do You Need One?
Some states and cities require additional inspections on top of a general inspection. Beyond that, you may just want a specialized inspection due to a special circumstance or particular concern you or your general inspector may have.
 
Examples of specialized inspections:
 
• Sewer inspection
• Chimney inspection
• Mold inspection
• Lead inspection
• Asbestos inspection
• Pest inspection
• Inspection of a special feature such as swimming pool or hot tub
Tip
If a home inspector tells you not to attend the inspection, find someone else. This is a classic red flag.

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Brooke Jones


Cell: 641.420.2172

Liz Sandy


Cell: 712.330.1386

Community Updates

St. Patrick's Day!

St. Patrick's Day! in Emmetsburg

Check out Emmetsburg for your St. Patrick's Day celebration! You may just be surprised what a great location this is for some fun. It was even featured among the 10 most surprising places to celebrate St. Patty's!. See for yourself below!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Emmetsburg

Boji Tan

Boji Tan in Spirit Lake

Boji Tan is a great tanning salon located in Spirit Lake. They offer different types of beds that are four different levels. This local business is very clean and the staff is always friendly and provides you with great service. At Boji Tan they don't only offer tanning but you are able to purchase AdvoCare products also. If you are going on a trip and want to get a base tan before you leave or if you just want to warm up on those cold summer days make sure to stop at Boji Tan!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Spirit Lake

Cafe Esteam

Cafe Esteam in Spirit Lake

This new coffee shop is located in the Allure & Co. downtown Spirit Lake. They offer amazing coffee, smoothies and homemade baked goods. This is a great addition to the community!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Spirit Lake

Subscribe To Our Newsletter