Questions Buyers Should Ask After a Home Inspection

New home inspection with homeowner.

When hunting for luxury homes in the dynamic Portland, OR or Vancouver, WA markets, nothing will compare to the moment you discover your dream property. To attain this dream house, it pays to know how to navigate the initial home inspection. For a brief overview of your role in this process, Terrie Cox, RE/MAX Equity Group outlines some home inspection questions you should ask to get the most accurate picture of your coveted property.

Ask for Clarification

Knowledgeable inspectors make home walkthroughs that much more useful. Because inspectors have the experience, it follows that you will have questions about the observations they make. Sometimes, simply asking what something means can give you a clearer image of the issues or hazards they note.

Similarly, asking the inspector whether an issue is major or minor can be integral to your post-inspection action plan. For example, will you ask the seller to make a necessary repair? Or will you try to negotiate your offer in light of the need for home improvements? You should always consult your Broker before coming to any of these conclusions, especially when looking to buy an attractive luxury home. However, asking for clarification from the inspector can pave the way for your future home-buying decisions.

Should I Get a Second Opinion?

While home inspectors are certainly experts in their field, getting a second professional opinion can be helpful when dealing with major issues like roofing or air quality. Experts like plumbers, roofers, and electricians will be able to precisely diagnose problems for you, and they will also be able to provide accurate cost estimates for your consideration.

What Warranties or Maintenance Contracts, If Any, Will Be Transferred to Me?

When buying from serious, well-versed sellers, you are likely to receive a warranty or maintenance contract with your home purchase. For example, home warranties significantly up sellers’ chances of securing a bid, so they will likely be included. Home warranties conveniently cover major home systems, such as HVAC, water heaters, electrical, plumbing, and more. Maintenance contracts operate in much the same way, guaranteeing the repair or replacement of several home systems. Knowing this information, and getting it in writing, can help you and your Broker develop an enticing deal to help sway these seasoned sellers in your favor.

Ask Your Own Questions

It can be easy to hand the reigns over to an inspector as you walk through a home. Terrie Cox, RE/MAX Equity Group wants to remind you that you have an active part to play in this process. If something looks or feels off to you during the walkthrough, ask the inspector your own questions. By being present and vocal during the inspection, you can help boost your confidence later, when you’ll need it most to secure your dream home.

Have a Broker Present

Having a liaison that is on your side during the initial home inspection can play a crucial role in your ultimate buying decision. As a World-Ranked Broker, Terrie Cox, RE/MAX Equity Group knows how to traverse the luxury markets of Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA. Plus, she is one of the top Brokers in the world, giving her an edge during home inspections that significantly benefits her clients. To learn more about making the most of the initial home inspection, call or text Terrie Cox, RE/MAX Equity Group at 360-607-4100 or
contact her online today.

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