Rochester Real Estate | LOCAL Homes For Sale https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com Rochester Real Estate | LOCAL Homes For Sale | Homes for sale in Rochester, NY, LOCAL Rochester real estate listings, market data, REALTOR® info, and high quality content updated every 15 minutes! Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:50:30 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/cropped-SITE-LOGO-512-x-512-1-32x32.png Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home – Rochester Real Estate | LOCAL Homes For Sale https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com 32 32 June Home Maintenance Checklist: 40+ Must-Do Tasks to Prepare Your Home for Summer https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/june-home-maintenance-checklist-summer-prep/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20501 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> May Home Maintenance Checklist: 30 Essential Tasks to Prepare Your Home for Summer https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/may-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20484 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> April Home Maintenance Checklist: How To Prepare Your Rochester NY Home For Spring https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/april-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20364 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> March Home Maintenance Checklist: Get Your New York Home Ready for Spring https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/march-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20338 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Buy a House in New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/buy-a-house-in-new-york/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19906 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Sell a House in New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/sell-a-house-in-new-york/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19905 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Risks of Buying a Non-Warrantable Condo In New York: What You Need to Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/non-warrantable-condo/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19796 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Builders Should Know About Spec Construction Loans In New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/builders-spec-construction-loans/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19795 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Moving To The Finger Lakes Region Of New York | Guide To Relocating To The Finger Lakes https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/moving-to-the-finger-lakes-region/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19875 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Navigating the Numbers: The Pros and Cons of Using Online Home Value Estimators For New York Real Estate https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pros-cons-online-home-value-estimators/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19794 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Role of Location in Home Valuation In New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/role-of-location-home-valuation/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19768 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Lowe’s vs U-Haul: A Review of Truck Rental Companies https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/lowes-vs-uhaul/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19758 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Understanding the Importance of a Seller’s Property Condition Disclosure https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/property-condition-disclosure-statement/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19632 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What are Delayed Showings and Negotiations in Real Estate In New York? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/delayed-showings-negotiations/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19547 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 8 Viable Tactics to Selling Your Home and Moving Out of State https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/selling-home-moving-out-of-state/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19542 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Unconventional Methods for Selling a House: Thinking Outside the Box https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/unconventional-methods-for-selling-a-house/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19519 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should I Sell My House Off Market: Pros and Cons Explained https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/sell-house-off-market/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19503 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What is PITI and How Does It Affect Your Mortgage https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-is-piti/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19498 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Set A Home Renovation Budget https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-renovation-budget/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19490 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Does A Co-Borrowers Credit Scores Affect A Home Purchase? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/co-borrower-credit-score/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19474 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> New Construction Final Walk-Through Checklist: Ensuring a Seamless Home Inspection https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/new-construction-final-walk-through/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19458 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Essential Tips for Pumping a Septic Tank: What You Need to Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pumping-a-septic-tank/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19450 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Can You Submit Multiple Offers On Homes At Once – A Legal And Ethical Analysis https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/multiple-offers-on-homes-at-once/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19414 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Get Your Home Photo Ready for Real Estate Listings https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-photo-ready/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19409 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Does a Home Builder’s Warranty Cover? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-builders-warranty/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19394 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> July 2023 Greater Rochester NY Area Real Estate Market Update https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/july-2023-rochester-ny-real-estate-market-update/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19403 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Who Pays Real Estate Commission When You Buy or Sell a Home https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-commission/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19366 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Quitclaim Deeds: What You Need to Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/quitclaim-deeds/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19358 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What to Know About Selling a Home As Is for Cash https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/selling-home-as-is-cash/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19347 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Know if My House Has Paranormal Activity https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/is-my-house-haunted/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19342 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Why Find The History of a House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/find-history-house/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19316 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> June 2023 Greater Rochester NY Area Real Estate Market Update https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/june-2023-rochester-ny-area-real-estate-market-update/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19313 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-lawyer/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19181 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> May 2023 Greater Rochester NY Area Real Estate Market Update https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/may-2023-rochester-ny-area-real-estate-market-update/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19162 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What to Know About Buying a Home For The First Time https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/buying-home-first-time/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19058 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> <strong>What Should a Buyer Look For at a Home Inspection?</strong> https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-look-for-home-inspection/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18983 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Companies That Buy Houses For Cash Reviewed https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/companies-buy-houses-for-cash/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18889 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Does Home Staging Work and What is The Cost? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/does-home-staging-work/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18814 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What to Avoid When Getting a Mortgage https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/avoid-when-getting-mortgage/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18797 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> <strong>5 Options For Replacing a Roof Reviewed</strong> https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/replacing-roof/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18771 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Are Restrictive Covenants in Real Estate? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/restrictive-covenants/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18714 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Can The Court Force The Sale of Your House in Divorce? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/court-force-sale-divorce/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18693 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Real Estate Agent vs. Broker: What&#8217;s The Difference? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-agent-vs-broker/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18650 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Determine Square Feet In Your House For More Accurate Property Estimates https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/determine-square-feet/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18167 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 3 Things That Often Results in a Real Estate Agent Getting Sued https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-agent-sued/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18133 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Top 5 Types Of Home Inspections Buyers Should Consider https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-types-home-inspections/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18119 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Pros And Cons Of Rent To Own Homes: What You Need To Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pros-cons-rent-own-homes/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18104 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 5 Smart Things To Do Before Moving That Will Help Ease Your Transition https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/things-before-moving/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18084 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Become a Real Estate Agent https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/become-real-estate-agent/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18071 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Renting A House Or An Apartment: Which Is The Better Option https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/renting-house-apartment/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17871 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The 5 Most Important Factors To Consider When Buying A House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-factors-buying-house/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17851 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Buyers And Sellers Need To Know About An Appraisal Gap https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/appraisal-gap/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17827 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Pros And Cons Of Renting With Roommates – What You Need To Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/renting-with-roommates/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17794 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 6 Things You Should Know About Buying Land https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/things-know-buying-land/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17773 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Long Should Home Sellers Wait To Respond To An Offer On Their Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-sellers-wait-respond-offer/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17745 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Buy A House With A Low Credit Score https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-buy-a-house-with-a-low-credit-score/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16819 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Things To Consider When Shipping A Car https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/things-to-consider-when-shipping-a-car/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16248 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Home Depot Truck Rentals: What to Know Including Pricing https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-depot-truck-rentals-what-to-know-including-pricing/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16156 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 16 Things To Do Before Listing Your Home For Sale https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/16-things-to-do-before-listing-your-home-for-sale/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16138 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Biggest Home Inspection Mistakes to Avoid https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/biggest-home-inspection-mistakes-to-avoid/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16112 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Ability To Buy A House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-credit-score-impacts-buying-house/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16086 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Winter Home Selling Mistakes | 7 Errors Made While Selling A House During The Winter https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-winter-home-selling-mistakes/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16051 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Winter Home Buying Mistakes | 11 Errors Made While Buying A House During The Winter https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/winter-home-buying-mistakes/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16013 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Address Change Form Should I Use At The Post Office? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/address-change-form-post-office/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15981 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Does Contingent Status Mean in Real Estate? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-does-contingent-status-mean-real-estate/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15956 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> DIY Renovation Ideas For Your Backyard https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/diy-renovation-ideas-backyard/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15937 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Rent Your First Apartment Guide https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-rent-an-apartment/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15931 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Tips For Selling A Home Virtually https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/tips-selling-a-home-virtually/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15907 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Complete Winter Storage Checklist For Your Belongings https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/winter-storage-checklist/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15885 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should I Waive My Home Inspection When Buying A House? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/should-i-waive-my-home-inspection/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15870 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Biggest Self Storage Companies Reviewed https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/biggest-self-storage-companies/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15836 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Earnest Money and House Deposits Explained https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/earnest-money-house-deposits-explained/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15760 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Moving Mistakes To Avoid https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/moving-mistakes-to-avoid/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15568 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Mortgage Myths | Demystifying Common Home Loan Misconceptions https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-mortgage-myths/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15102 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes to Avoid https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/first-time-home-buyer-mistakes/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=14815 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 10 Tips For Adding Appeal To Your Home This Summer https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/10-tips-adding-appeal-to-home-this-summer/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=14237 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Exploring The Merits of Smart Home Technology When Selling a Home https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/smart-home-technology-selling-a-home/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13782 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Frequently Asked Questions From Home Sellers https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-frequently-asked-questions-home-sellers/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=2424 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> First Time Home Buyer Programs In Rochester NY &#8211; Updated January 2025 https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/first-time-home-buyer-programs/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock http://rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=580 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How New Doors &#038; Windows Can Boost Your Home Value https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-new-doors-windows-boost-your-home-value/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13643 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top 5 Things To Know When Flipping Your First House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-things-to-know-when-flipping-your-first-house/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13574 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Are The Best Mortgage Options for Self Employed Borrowers? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/mortgage-options-for-self-employed-borrowers/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13450 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top 10 Best Places To See Christmas Lights In Rochester NY https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-10-best-places-see-christmas-lights-rochester-ny/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=10236 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Are The PROs And CONs Of Multifamily Homes? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-multifamily-homes/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13219 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Low-Cost Home Improvements Should You Make Before Selling Your Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/low-cost-home-improvements-you-should-make-before-selling-your-home/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13114 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 15 Things Millennial Home Buyers Look At While Buying A House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/15-things-millennial-home-buyers-look-at-while-buying-a-house/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13028 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Does A Fence Increase The Value Of Your Home https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-does-a-fence-increase-the-value-of-your-home/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12995 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 5 Simple &#038; Low Cost Fixes To Make Your Home More Appealing To Buyers https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-simple-and-low-cost-fixes-to-make-your-home-more-appealing-to-buyers/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12779 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Improve A Homes Curb Appeal In Rochester NY https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-improve-a-homes-curb-appeal-rochester-ny/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12665 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 7 Ways to Create an Energy-Efficient Home While Conserving Your Budget https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/7-ways-create-an-energy-efficient-home/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12633 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Hiring Movers Vs. Moving Yourself | The PROs &#038; CONs Of Each https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/hiring-movers-vs-moving-yourself/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12592 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should You Pay Off Student Loans Before Purchasing a Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pay-off-student-loans-before-purchasing-a-home/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12531 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should I Build A New Home Or Buy An Existing Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/should-i-build-a-new-home-or-buy-an-existing-home/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=2497 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Buying A Condo Vs. Renting A Condo | What Are The PROs &#038; CONs? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/buying-a-condo-vs-renting-a-condo/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12402 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 9 Money Saving Moving Tips | How To Cut Costs When Moving https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/9-money-saving-moving-tips/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12341 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Create a Proper Home Maintenance Checklist https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-create-a-proper-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12300 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 5 Tips For Tenant Screening | How To Weed Out Bad Tenant Applicants https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/tips-for-tenant-screening/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12291 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Best Social Media Blogs For Real Estate From 2017 https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/best-social-media-blogs-2017/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12045 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Best Home Improvement Blogs From 2017 | Advice For Home Remodeling https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/best-home-improvement-blogs-2017/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12044 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
Subscribe To Our Blog (it's FREE) & You'll Receive All The Top Real Estate Tips, Trends, News, and More in your e-mail inbox!:Delivered by FeedBurner
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Best Mortgage Blogs From 2017 | Advice For Home Financing https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/best-mortgage-blogs-2017/ Tue, 10 Mar 2015 11:00:41 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12043 Top Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home[/caption] When buying a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home you're purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies from home buyer's.  Whether you have purchased five homes or you're going to buying your first home, a home inspection in almost every case, is highly recommended. Why is the home inspection contingency one of the most commonly seen and also highly recommended?  There are actually many reasons why the home inspection contingency is one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate and also why having a home inspection is highly recommended. So, what are the reasons why you should have a home inspection when buying a home?  Here are many of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home. Peace Of Mind A home is one of the largest purchases and investments that is purchased in anyone's lifetime.  The costs associated with buying a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is the peace of mind that it can provide. The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure the home is for the most part a very solid and safe home.  By waiving the opportunity to have a home inspection, you may actually be creating additional and unnecessary anxiety and stress.  By performing a home inspection, you will have the added peace of mind that you're purchasing a very solid and safe home. Relatively Inexpensive Another reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is that it doesn't cost a lot of money.  Most home inspections will range between $300-$600 depending on the size of the home.  Since buying a home is such a large investment, the small amount of money it costs for a home inspection should help make the decision easy to have an inspection, even if you feel extremely comfortable with the home you're purchasing. Buyer's who decide to waive their right to having a home inspection often regret in the future about not spending the few hundred dollars it costs to hire a home inspector.  The most common circumstance when a buyer waives the right to having a home inspection is when there are multiple offers on a home.  If there is a multiple offer situation where the two offers are fairly similar and one of the offers is not contingent on having a home inspection, a seller is likely to select the offer with no home inspection contingency. Uncover Safety Issues The home inspection is the opportunity to thoroughly investigate the home you're potentially going to be purchasing.  It's important to understand that a quality home inspector will find some issues with every home, even a newly built home.  Some of the issues that are found may not be a big deal while some maybe serious safety issues. Some issues that are discovered during a home inspection are actually quite common.  Issues such as improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, inoperable windows, and plumbing deficiencies are just a few of the most commonly found home inspection issues.  The purpose of a home inspection is not to make sure that every last thing in a home is perfect to your liking, however, it's important that the home inspection determines the home has no glaring safety issues. [caption id="attachment_2527" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection Discovering Pest & Insect Problems Is A Reason To Have A Home Inspection[/caption] Reveal Possible Pest & Insect Problems Pest and insect infestation can destroy a home.  Depending on your location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pests and insects that can create problems in a home.  Wood-boring pests and insects, such as termites, can be a huge problem if not discovered.  Termites cause approximately five billion dollars in damage to properties yearly.  Other common wood destroying pests include carpenter ants and powder post beetles. Some home inspections will include a pest and insect inspection and others will not.  Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether or not they have any home inspectors or pest inspection companies who can make sure the home you're purchasing does not have any pest or insect problems. Find Structural Issues One of the top reasons to have a home inspection when buying a home is to determine if there are any structural issues with the home.  The structure of a home is one of the most important components to a home.  Structural issues can costs thousands of dollars to correct if discovered and by performing a home inspection, you can avoid having such a large expense in the future. When choosing a home inspector, know that some home inspectors are professional engineers (PE's) and some are not.  A home inspector who is a professional engineer should be able to determine whether a home has structural issues or not.  Other things to be aware of while looking a homes that could be potential structural issues include significant cracks in ceilings and walls, cracking in the foundation walls, and out of level door frames. Forecast Potential Future Expenses Since buying a home can be a significant investment and can deplete a buyer's bank account, it's important to know what to expect in the future when it comes to expenses.  It's important to understand that there are no guarantees when it comes to the unexpected expenses of owning a home.  While unlikely, it's possible that a new hot water tank can be defective and need replacement shortly after closing. Another important reason to have a home inspection when buying a home is it can help predict the future expenses.  If a home inspector indicates the roof or furnace is nearing the end of it's life expectancy, it's important you begin to budget for a new roof or furnace.  The home inspection is a great tool to help you create a future plan for expenses. Home inspections can help determine where expenses for replacement or upgrades may arise in the future for many components, including:
  • Appliances
  • Windows
  • Roofing
  • Air Conditioning
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating Systems
There are programs available at local, state, and national levels that provide grant money and tax incentives for replacement for many of the above components in a home.  Ask your Realtor about potential programs in your local area and state. [caption id="attachment_2529" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs Home Inspections Allow For Negotiations On Price & Repairs[/caption] Price Negotiations First and foremost, the purpose of the home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during the home inspection.  Buyer's who use the home inspection as a time to renegotiate with a seller even though an issue was seen before making an offer is one of the biggest things a buyer can do that real estate agents hate (and sellers). If there are some major problems that are discovered during the inspection however, it maybe appropriate to renegotiate the terms of the original accepted offer.  Depending on the type of financing and terms of the original contract, deficiencies from the home inspection can be used as a reason for a reduction in the price or a concession from the seller towards closing costs. Negotiate Seller Repairs The only person who can determine what home inspection findings that need to be corrected before moving forward, is the buyer.  Some buyer's are scared away from a home relatively easily and others are not alarmed by even significant inspection findings. After the home inspection is completed, you will have the opportunity to request repairs of the home owner.  The home owner will have the opportunity to agree to the repairs or disagree to the repairs.  Without a home inspection, you will not have the opportunity to request repairs from a seller.  This is another very important reason why having a home inspection when buying a home is strongly recommended. Provides An "Out" One of the biggest challenges that is faced during a real estate transaction is the home inspection phase.  Many transactions will not be able to move forward after a home inspection for various reasons.  The biggest reason a transaction doesn't move forward is because a buyer and seller cannot agree on the repairs requested or the renegotiation's from the inspection. There are some circumstances where a buyer does not feel comfortable with the findings from the home inspection and will not proceed with the transaction, no matter what concessions and repairs are offered from a seller.  The home inspection, in most cases, provides an "out" for a buyer if they are not comfortable, which is another reason for having a home inspection when buying a home.  While it is rare that a buyer gets "cold feet" after an inspection, it does happen. Final Thoughts As you can see, having a home inspection is highly recommended when buying a home, for the many reasons listed above.  While a home inspector is not perfect and can miss issues during a home inspection, they are going to inspect the home in much more detail than you and your real estate agent did during your initial visit. Just like you should interview a buyer's agent when buying a home, you should contact potential home inspectors to ask them questions.  Some questions and things you should consider asking a home inspector include:
  • Do you have any special certifications?
  • Are you a member of ASHI?
  • Can you provide references or testimonials?
  • Can I be at the home inspection?
  • What does your inspection include?
  • Can you send me a sample of your inspection report?
  • How much do you charge?
Other Home Buying & Inspection Related Resources Are you buying a home in Rochester, NY?  As you can see it's highly recommended you have a home inspection when buying a home.  If you have the need for a top quality home inspection company in Rochester, NY, contact me, and I'd be happy to provide you with several top quality home inspectors.  If you're unsure how the home buying process and home inspection process works, I'd love the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge with you.
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About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Reasons To Have A Home Inspection When Buying A Home" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]>