Buyer Beware.

The price of the American dream - and the cost of financing it - have literally gone through the roof in recent years. Whether mortgage rates are up or down, the purchase of real estate property still represents the largest investment most people ever make in a lifetime.

You may be tempted to jump quickly at what may first appear to be a good deal. Most houses/buildings up for sale today, both old and new, have some defects or repair needs, many of them serious. In these cases, any savings acheived through lower mortgage rates or purchase prices can easily get eaten up by unanticipated repair costs.

Many defects often go totally unnoticed by the average person, but can be quickly and accurately identified by a qualified home inspector. The smart consumer, therefore, will take the time to call in and accompany a professional inspector for a thorough and impartial inspection of the condition of the property before making a final decision.

The pre-purchase inspection has become an accepted and essential part of the sales transaction. The professional inspector, who understands the inner workings of construction, offers consumers an expert opionion regarding the condition of the major systems and components.  But, just as important is the educational value of the inspection to the buyer.  The inspection provides an excellent opportunity to learn how a house "works," where its various systems are located and how they work, maintenance issues particular to that property, and important structural aspects.

An education, however, is only as good as the teacher who provides it, and so the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) cautions buyers to be selective in their search for an inspector.  ASHI is recognized by professional and government groups alike as the leading national association for setting professional and technical standards for the home inspection profession.  Members of ASHI are professional inspectors who have met demanding education and experience requirements, and who are committed to following the organization's strict Code of Ethics.

Of course, a trip with the inspector is designed to illustrate the positive aspects of the property as well as the negative, and finding faults in a home doesn't necessarily mean one should not buy it, only that the consumer can know in advance what type of repair costs to anticipate.  

A professional inspector will reduce the risk of costly surprises with what is likely to be the largest purchase you will ever make. It helps you to make a more informed, more comfortable decision.