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Getting Down and Dirty - Septic System Inspections

Are you confused about why you may need a septic inspection before selling your house? Or are you buying a new home with a septic system? Get expert guidance on septic systems and operate with an experienced property agent in the process. Prior to purchasing a home, potential buyers typically employ an inspector to complete an inspection. The inspection often includes inspecting the structure of the home and checking for any insects. One of the most essential aspects of the home is that the septic inspection. Septic inspections are crucial for your health and that of anybody else living in your house, so homeowners should be sure that you schedule them regularly. But since septic systems are buried in the ground, they're often the last thing on many homeowners' heads -- until something goes wrong. Here's everything that you'll want to learn about your septic inspection when you are thinking of buying or sell your house.     What is a septic system? One in five houses in the US includes a septic system however, you'd be amazed how many people don't actually know what they are. A septic system is a system set up to remove the waste from your house. In working condition, it requires the water and waste from the washer, showers, sinks, and toilets and filters that water. The system then redistributes it into the ground. The entire process will help to reduce water and soil pollution.   Here is a summary of how it works. The Read the full article

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Sellers - What To Do When an Inspection Goes Bad

Skip the strain and follow this advice from our real estate expert about what to do when a home inspection goes south. Sometimes, you expect there to be nothing wrong with your home, and then the inspector presents his report to the buyer. There are a couple of ways for sellers to tackle this, and they're listed below. Most property freak-outs are the end result of surprises. If your place has some apparent imperfections and you put it on the current market, it is no big whoop once the inspectors confirm what you already knew. However, when you thought it was in great condition and the inspector says au contraire, that surprise may lead to some freak-out minute of the tallest order.   I Know the Feeling   Bad inspection outcomes are frightening since you don't have any real way to know how the buyer will react. If they are really bad, the buyer will probably back out. At the very least, you may have to manage a request for repairs or another renegotiation. Either way, the shock and surprise of it are sufficient to make a lot of uncertainty. Add that to the helplessness and the feeling of atmosphere subject to the whim of the purchaser's inspection group, and it's enough to cause an ordinarily even-keeled seller to tilt off-kilter. Your Mindset, Reset   When you get a bad report, inspections can look to be a terrible thought. Read the full article

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What Does A $200 Home Inspection Get You?

  The old adage "You get what you pay for" is something home inspectors have been preaching for decades. Sure, anyone can get a home inspected for $200.00, but what do you really get? A headache, that's what. Read on to find out "What Does A $200 Home Inspection Get You", and why you shouldn't skimp on your inspection.   Where Can I Find "The Deal Killer"?   You often hear that homebuyers should hire a"deal killer," or even the most thorough home inspector in town, to have a look at the home they intend to purchase prior to closing. But the reality is that the same advice applies to vendors in the event they opt to perform a pre-listing inspection in their home. With fewer years of knowledge rather than a great deal of business," they're very distressed, so they charge very low prices. However, their inspections are poor and they'll miss a lot of stuff."However, tempted to price shop to get an inexpensive home inspection? Let us cover all of the floors for why this strategy could backfire and the criteria you should use to choose a home inspector instead.   What is a home inspection anyhow, and how much does it cost?   A home inspection is a non-invasive visual analysis of a property's following elements: foundation, roof, plumbing, HVAC, electrical system, and exterior grounds. The home inspector investigates the visual flaws of one or more of these systems and decides whether they are a safety or health concern. Read the full article

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Preparing Your Southeast Florida Home for Hurricane Season 2020

When winter gives way to spring, Southeast Florida residents are pleased to complete their spring cleaning jobs and ready their house for seasonal changes. They also understand that extreme weather conditions call for a touring of their property and preparing it for the harsh elements. Oftentimes, it will require hiring some professionals to do the heavy lifting that will help you prepare your Southeast Florida home.   The pleasant weather which we enjoy in Southeast Florida does come at a price, in the kind of hurricane year. Homeowners should keep in mind the significance of securing their homes from extreme weather conditions. The National Weather Service declared Hurricane Preparedness Week for May 3-9 2020 to motivate residents to make the appropriate preparations. Bearing that in mind, here are a few maintenance tips in addition to advice on hurricanes that will assist you and your family get your home ready this spring.   Air Conditioning and HVAC System These jobs are often beyond the capacity of regular homeowners, which means you should schedule a consultation with your air conditioning specialist as soon as possible. Otherwise, if your system starts to malfunction after in the season, you may find it hard to get an appointment, because everybody else will probably be calling for service too. Read the full article

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What Does A $200 Home Inspection Get You?

The old adage "You get what you pay for" is something home inspectors have been preaching for decades. Sure, anyone can get a home inspected for $200.00, but what do you really get? A headache, that's what. Read on to find out "What Does A $200 Home Inspection Get You", and why you shouldn't skimp on your inspection.   Where Can I Find "The Deal Killer"?   You often hear that homebuyers should hire a"deal killer," or even the most thorough home inspector in town, to have a look at the home they intend to purchase prior to closing. But the reality is that the same advice applies to vendors in the event they opt to perform a pre-listing inspection in their home. With fewer years of knowledge rather than a great deal of business," they're very distressed, so they charge very low prices. However, their inspections are poor and they'll miss a lot of stuff."However, tempted to price shop to get an inexpensive home inspection? Let us cover all of the floors for why this strategy could backfire and the criteria you should use to choose a home inspector instead.   What is a home inspection anyhow, and how much does it cost?   A home inspection is a non-invasive visual analysis of a property's following elements: foundation, roof, plumbing, HVAC, electrical system, and exterior grounds. The home inspector investigates the visual flaws of one or more of these systems and decides whether they are a safety or health concern. Read the full article

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Reducing Attached Garage Fires This Summer

The objective of this article is twofold. At EPIC Inspecting, we would like you to consider measures to keep your garage free from fire. There are ways this can be achieved, some of which are described below. Secondly, garage fires do happen, and we'd like you to make sure that fire can't easily spread to the rest of your house. Though you may perform many of the recommendations in this informative article, it's a fantastic idea to seek the services of an EPIC inspector to be certain your house is safe from a garage fire.   Why do many garages pose a fire danger? Where are you most likely to do any welding or any work on your car? Your garage of course. These activities require working with all kinds of materials. Water boilers and heaters are usually stored in garages, and they can create sparks that may ignite fumes or fluids. Automobile batteries will ignite under specific conditions. Oil and gasoline can drip from cars. These fluids may collect unnoticed and eventually ignite, given the conditions. Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, motor oil, and paint are commonly stored in garages. A few other examples are varnish brake fluid, paint thinner and lighter fluid.   The following tips can help stop garage fires from spreading: If the garage allows entry to the attic, be sure that a hatch covers this access. The walls and ceiling ought to be fire-rated. It will be hard for homeowners to inform if their walls are Type X gypsum that is fire-rated. Read the full article

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Can Your Smart Home Outsmart a Storm?

  As high tech as our contemporary homes are, we are still at the mercy of Mother Nature each time a major storm rolls through. While there's not much you can do to put a stop to strong winds, power outages, and flooding, the ideal smart home tech can offer you a leg up in maintaining your home protected in the middle of a crisis.  As you put together your emergency kit and emergency program, consider these wise house recommendations -- they can make all the difference between a short-term annoyance and a long-term disaster.   Stay Connected Even When the Grid Goes Down Before you invest in several smart house tools, you will want to be certain you have the energy you need to keep those tools going when you need them the most. Invest in an uninterrupted power source (or UPS) to maintain your net connection and WiFi operational during the next power outage. A UPS can kick at the moment the power drops, and also a mid-range device are able to keep your critical systems operating for 12 hours or longer. If you reside in an area that's prone to hurricanes or other natural disasters which can result in long-term outages, consider investing in a small generator that will power your technician for days and maintain essential appliances (such as the fridge, HVAC system, and medical devices) up and running. Read the full article

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What Happens Following a Home Inspection?

    Home inspections can make both buyers and sellers nervous -- but they do not have to. With a seasoned property professional advising you during your real estate transaction, you can be sure that any possible inspection problems are handled swiftly and with your best interests in mind. This is al about what happens following a home inspection.  

HOME INSPECTIONS & NEGOTIATIONS

  A home inspection is one of the most nerve-wracking areas of the house selling process, for both sellers and buyers. It is very important to keep in mind though, that a home inspection isn't a pass or fail test. No home is perfect, so don't be scared off by a home review that scores less than 100 percent on every facet. A home inspection is merely a means to provide buyers and sellers a snapshot of their houses current condition and any substantial issues that may need addressing. Getting a home inspection is crucial for buyers that want to minimize unwanted surprises and unexpected costly repairs. And for vendors, knowing what is going on under the surface of the house gives them a more realistic anticipation on their sales cost. Unsure exactly what a home inspection means to your home? A Intelligent Partner Agent can clarify how reviews affect cost.    

What's a Home Inspection?

  A home inspection is an objective examination of the construction and major systems of a house. To put it differently, it is an assessment of the house. Even though an inspector can't be expected to come across each and every fault or defect within a house, they could give a fantastic idea of the house's present condition. A house inspection generally concludes with an inspection report. The inspection report details all the findings of the inspection. The purchaser can then apply these findings to make an informed decision about whether to continue with the purchase of their house. If there's a contingency in the purchase offer, the buyer also has the choice to make a deal with the seller to repair any problems or to lower the cost to accommodate needed repairs.  

What Does a Home Inspection Look For?

How in depth a home inspection varies, but most cover the principal regions of the house that could have problems.   State of the Roof Tell-tale indicators of a damaged roof such as deteriorated shingles or missing tiles are one of the very first things home inspectors look for. Inspectors will also seem to discover whether there's any moisture beneath the roof shingles. Additional issues, such as damaged flashing around the chimney -- and the condition of the chimney itself will also be checked. It's essential for a prospective buyer to know if the chimney is safe to use or whether it is created any structural damage. Electrical Systems Safety and Functioning Faulty or inadequate electrical systems can be a problem, particularly in older houses . Inspectors will look to ensure that the electric panel and circuit breaker setup is suitable for the house. Homes with older electrical panels can be almost impossible to cover, so it is crucial to know whether your home has one. Inspectors will also appear at receptacles to ensure they are wired properly and also test them for functionality and security. Plumbing Problems Water damage can be extremely expensive to repair. Inspectors will check for leaky pipes issues and also the water pressure coming into the home. Drainage issues can be tricky to cure and costly to fix. If the home has a septic tank it is wise to have this inspected to ensure that you don't encounter any nasty surprises later closure. Dampness Issues Most inspectors have a keen nose to the presence of mildew. If a home smells damp there's probably an issue with moisture -- frequently stemming from the cellar. Home inspectors analyze walls and flooring for evidence of dampness, mold, and mold. It is important to be aware of any moisture problems in a home, as they can quickly deteriorate building materials -- and of course attract unwelcome house guests such as bugs. Working Appliances Home inspectors may also check that all main appliances are working and safe. This includes items like the dishwasher, HVAC system, the oven, and the smoke sensors. What Happens When Problems Are Discovered? Although a lot of issues that are found in home inspections are small inconveniences and quick fixes, other issues may be more important and more expensive. Following a house inspection is a perfect time to pay any fixes or credits. It's in the interest of both the buyer and the seller to come to a compromise on any extra work that might need to be carried out. Issues about the security of a house ought to be addressed in the first instance. Not only are security issues a concern for the purchaser and the seller, but they also make it extremely tough to insure the house -- a must for any buyer who's financing. Home sellers are generally very accommodating when issues are made evident from the review report. A real estate agent who is experienced in negotiating will be able to help navigate the talks of credits or repairs at closing in a manner that is effective and timely. It is vital that buyers to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each issue with their new possible residence. If the repair is minor, it is likely that it is going to cost less to repair than the price of the real inspection. In this case, it makes no sense to walk away from the offer. In the unlikely case that a vendor and buyer cannot come to an agreement on important issues which impacts the insurability of a house or are especially costly, it might be necessary for the purchaser to walk away -- unless they're ready to pay for the repairs themselves. Why a Real Estate Agent Is Significant During Negotiations Typically it is in the interest of the buyer and the vendor to close the real estate transaction as soon as they've passed the point of inspection. A knowledgeable realtor will have the ability to advise buyers about how to approach a request for a credit or a repair at final. Sellers typically find it easier and less stressful to offer you a charge instead of going through fixes. Buyers often prefer this also, since they could have a taste of how they would prefer the repair done or the builder they would like to employ. Property agents can negotiate on behalf of the vendor when the buyer's requests are not feasible at the time frame. For instance, if the purchaser is insistent on a repair that can't be completed before closure, the deal of a credit or renegotiating the sale price could be preferable for both. An experienced real estate agent can help to maneuver negotiations efficiently, ensuring a stressful sales transaction for both the buyer and the seller. If you're considering purchasing a new home or even selling your current home, the thought of possible negotiations may seem daunting. Clever Partner Agents are known professionals who have managed hundreds of discussions over their career and can negotiate on your behalf and make sure your requirements and expectations are met after a home inspection.   Read the full article

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Do I Need an Air Quality Test?

When you're buying a house, there are so many questions that you may have about your new home. One of those concerns may be the quality of air in the home. Choosing a home inspection company that also does air quality testing may be beneficial to you and your purchase. Read on about why you may need an air quality test.

SHOULD I HAVE AN AIR QUALITY TEST PERFORMED DURING MY INSPECTION?

In the past indoor air quality wasn't paid much attention to. When you purchased a home you were interested in the house's mechanical and structural elements than you were in the indoor atmosphere. With new research and study suggesting indoor air quality is an element in human health the capacity to test that indoor air quality for potentially harmful substances may be important to you. This article investigates the process of analyzing the indoor air quality in your house.  

WHY HAVE YOUR HOME TESTED FOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY?

In case you have an existing home you don't intend to sell anytime soon, having the indoor air quality analyzed can make it possible for you to find out whether you should make some adjustments or investments so as to increase your indoor air. With much of our time spent indoors when sleeping or doing things around the house having great fresh air to breathe aids improve your wellbeing. Additionally, this is an essential factor if you are thinking of purchasing a house, after all, no one wants to move in a house they love only to have their health get worse because of airborne mold, allergens or other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Home sellers can also gain by having their home tested for indoor air quality by demonstrating that their home's atmosphere is indeed good quality or by showing the extra measures required to enhance the quality. How many additional home sellers can say they have had their home air quality analyzed or reveal real improvements which will make the air quality inside their home better? In case you have your house tested prior to selling it and made improvements if desired, buyers can rest assured that air quality will not be an issue for them.  

WHAT CAN AN INDOOR AIR QUALITY TEST FIND

Among the most popular indoor air quality test performed is a test that checks for the existence of radon. Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that's naturally occurring in many areas. Long term exposure to radon gas can result in lung cancer and so the detection and reduction of radon is quite important for indoor air quality. More attention is now being paid into the levels of biological contaminants from the air. Biological contaminants likes mold and germs can cause respiratory and other disorders when their existence is elevated. Having a home tested for mold contamination or having the atmosphere in a home tested for mold spores will help ensure you aren't getting a sick building that will cause you to get ill also. Mold contamination in homes is also not easily removed and often times demand the help of a licensed mold remediation company to come in to remove contaminated materials and also to treat the house to prevent additional mold infestation. Think of a mold evaluation as essential as the home inspection. If the test shows mold within a home then you might want to pass in your home rather than cope with the entire cleanup involved. VOCs are output from a range of different typical household items and can usually be examined for. VOCs are a type of quite a few different harsh chemicals that if individuals are subjected to they might suffer some negative health effects as an outcome. New siding, furniture, treated wood or carpets can off-gas certain substances (such as formaldehyde) which induce people to get sick over a longer period of Time or at the immediate time frame may cause itchy nasal passages, reddish eyes, sneezing, and more. Additionally, many household cleaners also output VOCs which can lead to short or long term health problems for all those directly exposed to it on a normal basis.  

HOW SHOULD INDOOR AIR QUALITY TESTING BE PERFORMED?

Radon and Safety Tests For tests like radon and mold you need to ask your home inspector if they have any certifications that reveal they have the experience to run those tests. If your home inspector can perform mold and radon tests then having them execute the tests as part of their home inspection can save you some money versus having to find another contractor to do each one of the evaluations. There are also some internet websites that sell mold test kits in which you do the test and mail the test device back to the company for them to supply you a comprehensive analysis of the mold results. Utilizing an internet-based testing provider may be cost-effective but the results you get may not be accurate depending on how well the directions were followed and at which you tested in particular for mold. A house inspector going through a home as part of their house inspection will have more chance to observe where mold growth may be current and needs to be in a position to test for mold with more precise results. Mold testing should likewise not just look for surface mold problems but also check for airborne mold as well as airborne mold could indicate the presence of mould from the HVAC system, in the interior walls that cannot be easily seen. If higher numbers of airborne mold are found only in certain areas of the home then further investigation may be needed to determine what's causing the mold levels to be elevated. Radon tests are conducted by electronic devices that must be put in place somewhere in the basement or crawlspace where radon gas will be most prevalent. The radon test devices must stay in the house a couple of times and also the introduction of doors and windows should be kept to the absolute minimum so as to find accurate results. Unlike mold, radon is simpler to deal with by installing a radon mitigation system which will keep radon levels well below damaging levels. Volatile Organic Compounds Testing for VOCs is now not common practice and therefore finding a professional who will be able to test for elevated levels of VOCs may be impossible in your region. You will find VOC test kits you can purchase on the internet and after putting up them and allowing them to collect samples from the atmosphere you return for lab analysis and outcomes. The results may give you an idea of how many VOCs, to what degree a particular home or area of a house has, and also help you decide if something needs to be carried out in order to improve the quality.

WHAT TO DO AFTER YOU GET YOUR INDOOR AIR QUALITY RESULTS

If you are thinking about buying a house and locate poor indoor air quality you may want to reconsider the purchase of that house. While issues such as radon can effectively be addressed with the correct steps, VOCs and mold on the other hand can be harder. Mold requires extensive cleaning which could include things like ripping up carpets, drywall, insulation and more to be able to do away with present mold. VOCs may come from a number of different sources and without pinpointing what's causing the high levels of VOCs you could possibly be in a constant game of switching out substances and products in order to decrease the VOC content in your property. For sellers identifying the poor air quality issues in your house lets you take proactive actions and clean up or mitigate those issues so you can benefit. Also any buyer interested in your home will benefit and have an extra incentive to buy your home over another that might not have experienced their own indoor air quality assessed and improved. Some options such as Energy Recovery Ventilation systems help circulate indoor air with fresh outdoor air without sacrificing much energy from the process.

BOTTOM LINE

Indoor air quality is an important aspect to take into account if you are thinking about buying a home, selling your home or plan on living in it for the foreseeable future. Indoor air quality can have a direct impact on the health of individuals. As more home buyers understand that indoor air quality could be enhanced you will see an increased need for characteristics and houses that can show improvements or systems in place that help boost the indoor atmosphere. When you need an air quality test, choose someone who is nothing less than professional. Read the full article

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12 Tips for Getting the Most Out of your Home Inspection

A proper home inspection is your best defense against buying a property that is going to be a house improvement nightmare. Use these 12 tips to get the absolute most from your home inspection  

Show Up

  be certain you are current for the home inspection and also be prepared to ask questions and point out particular problems you'd love to check out further. This will be the first time your home inspector continues to be at the property, which means that your knowledge of potential problems is invaluable.  

Use Someone You Trust

  Doing your homework to find your own home inspector can really give you peace of mind. While your realtor has a few inspectors that he or she can recommend, you should really find your own. An impartial home inspector will not have any loyalty to your own realtor and will be able to talk openly and honestly about troubles. You may have to pay just a bit extra for a quality home inspector, however, in contrast to the cost of a home, it's well worth it. While searching for an inspector, here are two great places to start: homeinspector.org and nachi.org.  

Don't be Afraid to Ask Questions

  The main reason you hired a home inspector is this individual has the necessary knowledge to assess whether this possible property has some problems that could make buying the home a bad decision. And you should respect your house inspector's time and knowledge. But if something does not seem right or you don't know what a house inspector is speaking to, speak up. It's better to ask a question today than have a problem arise after you have purchased the house. Find out more about possible problems -- read about signals your house is in trouble here.  

Get Pictures for Proof

  Any home inspector worth his/her weight will deliver along with a camera on the inspection. The inspector will also be heading into areas that you won't want to see if you do not need to (the roof, crawl space, under decks, the attic, etc.). Consult your inspector to photograph so that you may see the problem on your own, any possible issues that come up, and be sure you fully understand the issue. Thermal and infrared cameras can provide you and your inspector a look behind walls and flooring that you wouldn't have the ability to get without ripping out flooring or drywall. Since this technology is so accessible, your home inspector must make use of these pieces of equipment during the inspection (although some home inspectors might charge an extra fee for this service).  

Do Your Own Pre-Inspection

  You can really learn a lot about a home just by looking at it. Make sure you do your home inspection and note any possible troubles. Look at walls and ceilings for any signs of water damage (discoloration, stains, etc.). Try all of the light switches and outlets you can to make sure that the electrical layout makes sense. Peek in the electric panel to find out whether there are any possible wiring issues (search for new cable, old wiring which isn't hooked up, etc.). On the exterior of the home, look for drainage issues, areas with peeling paint, around decks and porches, inspect the siding, etc.. Going into an inspection, you should have a fantastic idea of things you would enjoy your inspector to pay attention to. Learn more about performing your pre-inspection here.  

Pay Close Attention to the Roof

  A home's roof plays a huge role in maintaining the interior in good shape. It's also among the most expensive and labor-intensive pieces of a home to replace. Attempt to find out when the roof was last replaced, the age of the shingles, and whether or not any warranty exists. Make sure that your home inspector really goes up on the roof during the inspection (unless it's physically dangerous to do so)? There's only so much you can view while standing on the ground. Keep eyes peeled for curling or missing shingles and pay particular attention to anywhere there's a chimney, vent, or skylight. You could even see indications of water problems in the attic if it is accessible. Find out more about roofing difficulties and repairs that are necessary here.  

Look for Cosmetic Fixes

  Freshly-painted walls and new flooring are often signals that a homeowner cares about the home they're selling. But sometimes these items can also be cosmetic cover-ups of inherent issues. Pay attention to any fixes that are suspicious part of a floor repaired or patched or only portion of a wall is painted? And request your inspector to have a look.  

Test GFCIs

  GFCI outlets are part of the building code in rooms where moisture exists (kitchen, bath, laundry area, etc.). Your inspector will understand how to examine these outlets and bigger electric issues could be hinted at by even malfunctioning or non-working GFCI outlets. Learn the best way to test GFCIs here.  

Look in the Attic

  A well-functioning attic is Imperative to protecting a House. If your home inspector can get into the loft without trampling insulating material, you can often learn a great deal. One very frequent inspection red flag is improper venting of toilet fans into the attic (rather than extending the port all of the ways through the roof). All it's doing is sending moisture and humid air to the attic where it can lead to rot, mold, or even worse if your bathroom fan is ventilation directly into the attic. It's also not up to code. If possible, have your inspector check for attic air escapes. While you can fix these attic air leaks, an attic with air leaks could have potential issues with insulation, moisture, mold, or worse.

Give the Pipes a Try

  Coping with a slow drain or losing water pressure can be indicators of plumbing issues. Make sure bathtubs and shower pans are leak-tested. And possess the home inspector to inspect the water primary and shutoff points (very useful knowledge if/when you take ownership of the property).    

HVAC and Water Heater

  Beyond making certain the HVAC  and water heater work correctly, you ought to find out how old each one is and the final time each received service. Repairing a furnace or water heater can be pricy, so if one is needing replacing you need to bear this in mind while putting together your deal on the house. You can also get a feel for the way the HVAC is cared for by assessing the HVAC filter. A filter that's in evident need of replacement can hint at other postponed or forgotten maintenance.

  Don't Forget Your Inspector:

  Akin to the way a doctor needs to focus their attention on their patient, a home inspector needs to focus their attention on the homr. While you're more than welcome to walk around with your home inspector, it's better to leave them to do their job. Imagine if the doctor had to divide his attention away from the surgical table to field a question? Once the doctor's attention has been taken away from his patient, something bad could happen. As a home buyer, it's your right to ask questions of your inspector, however, like the surgery described above, are best left for after the procedure/inspection is complete. No matter what, you need an inspector and an inspection company that has your back before, during, and after the home inspection process. These guys know home inspections and what it takes to do all of the above and more. Read the full article

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5 Super-Fast Facts About Your Home Inspection

  You've found the house of your dreams, and the seller accepted your offer to buy. Congrats! But don't break out the bubbly just yet. Here are 5 super-fast facts about home inspections which you want to know.     The possibility of a home inspection might appear daunting, but it's actually pretty straightforward: You hire an expert to assess the condition of the home and identify any possible expenses that might crop up post-purchase. Hiring somebody who is InterNACHI-certified (that is the International Association of  Certified Home Inspectors) is probably a safe bet. Ask your friends, family, co-workers, real estate agent or loan officer should they know of a reputable inspector, or even locate someone in your area.    

1. You will need to pay up

Lots of buyers don't understand that a) while home inspections are a good idea, they are discretionary; and b) the homebuyer is on the hook to the cost of this review. The average price of an inspection is about $300, depending on the dimensions of the house and where you reside. It may seem steep, but what you're really buying is reassurance. In the end, you're considering purchasing something which's likely to cost you tens of thousands of dollars, along with your inspector could discover a major flaw which can not be seen with the naked eye (like a crack in the base, evidence of flooding or formerly undiscovered mold and mildew). You might even opt to walk away from a property that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.  Some inspectors provide a warranty or guarantee post-inspection. This is something you want to take advantage of.    

2. You should attend Your House inspection

Plenty of home inspectors really recommend that potential homebuyers attend their own testimonials. This way they can be sure they are being thorough and answering any questions that the buyers might have. When they identify any issues, they could point out these to you personally and perhaps even suggest a professional who can do the repair work.    

3. You can pay back the Expense of repairs with the vendor

Some repairs are relatively minor. When we purchased our house, our home inspector told us we had to install a radon mitigation system and repair a couple windows with broken seals. We were able to subtract the cost of the work from our closing purchase price on the house. And if worst comes to worst, you can cancel the sale (depending on your particular offer to buy and whether you included a home inspection contingency).    

4. Generic house inspection checklists can help you prepare

These may allow you to become acquainted with what an inspector may be looking for. You can find a sample checklist by doing a simple google search.    

5. When you are ready to purchase, schedule your home inspection as soon as possible

If there are any significant problems with the home, you are going to want to learn right away so that you can make an educated decision about whether to buy it or not. Also, you will need to be certain you've built in plenty of time before your closing date in case the home needs extra inspections. You have so much going on when buying a home, don't forget about your home inspection. Call the best inspection team in Port St Lucie, Florida for your home inspection, 4-point inspection, Wind Mitigation, and air quality testing Read the full article

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5 Super-Fast Facts About Your Home Inspection

  You've found the house of your dreams, and the seller accepted your offer to buy. Congrats! But don't break out the bubbly just yet. Here are 5 super-fast facts about home inspections which you want to know.     The possibility of a home inspection might appear daunting, but it's actually pretty straightforward: You hire an expert to assess the condition of the home and identify any possible expenses that might crop up post-purchase. Hiring somebody who is InterNACHI-certified (that is the International Association of  Certified Home Inspectors) is probably a safe bet. Ask your friends, family, co-workers, real estate agent or loan officer should they know of a reputable inspector, or even locate someone in your area.    

1. You will need to pay up

Lots of buyers don't understand that a) while home inspections are a good idea, they are discretionary; and b) the homebuyer is on the hook to the cost of this review. The average price of an inspection is about $300, depending on the dimensions of the house and where you reside. It may seem steep, but what you're really buying is reassurance. In the end, you're considering purchasing something which's likely to cost you tens of thousands of dollars, along with your inspector could discover a major flaw which can not be seen with the naked eye (like a crack in the base, evidence of flooding or formerly undiscovered mold and mildew). You might even opt to walk away from a property that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs.  Some inspectors provide a warranty or guarantee post-inspection. This is something you want to take advantage of.    

2. You should attend Your House inspection

Plenty of home inspectors really recommend that potential homebuyers attend their own testimonials. This way they can be sure they are being thorough and answering any questions that the buyers might have. When they identify any issues, they could point out these to you personally and perhaps even suggest a professional who can do the repair work.    

3. You can pay back the Expense of repairs with the vendor

Some repairs are relatively minor. When we purchased our house, our home inspector told us we had to install a radon mitigation system and repair a couple windows with broken seals. We were able to subtract the cost of the work from our closing purchase price on the house. And if worst comes to worst, you can cancel the sale (depending on your particular offer to buy and whether you included a home inspection contingency).    

4. Generic house inspection checklists can help you prepare

These may allow you to become acquainted with what an inspector may be looking for. You can find a sample checklist by doing a simple google search.    

5. When you are ready to purchase, schedule your home inspection as soon as possible

If there are any significant problems with the home, you are going to want to learn right away so that you can make an educated decision about whether to buy it or not. Also, you will need to be certain you've built in plenty of time before your closing date in case the home needs extra inspections. You have so much going on when buying a home, don't forget about your home inspection. Call the best inspection team in Port St Lucie, Florida for your home inspection, 4-point inspection, Wind Mitigation, and air quality testing Read the full article

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12 Tips for Getting the Most Out of your Home Inspection

A proper home inspection is your best defense against buying a property that is going to be a house improvement nightmare. Use these 12 tips to get the absolute most from your home inspection  

Show Up

  be certain you are current for the home inspection and also be prepared to ask questions and point out particular problems you'd love to check out further. This will be the first time your home inspector continues to be at the property, which means that your knowledge of potential problems is invaluable.  

Use Someone You Trust

  Doing your homework to find your own home inspector can really give you peace of mind. While your realtor has a few inspectors that he or she can recommend, you should really find your own. An impartial home inspector will not have any loyalty to your own realtor and will be able to talk openly and honestly about troubles. You may have to pay just a bit extra for a quality home inspector, however, in contrast to the cost of a home, it's well worth it. While searching for an inspector, here are two great places to start: homeinspector.org and nachi.org.  

Don't be Afraid to Ask Questions

  The main reason you hired a home inspector is this individual has the necessary knowledge to assess whether this possible property has some problems that could make buying the home a bad decision. And you should respect your house inspector's time and knowledge. But if something does not seem right or you don't know what a house inspector is speaking to, speak up. It's better to ask a question today than have a problem arise after you have purchased the house. Find out more about possible problems -- read about signals your house is in trouble here.  

Get Pictures for Proof

  Any home inspector worth his/her weight will deliver along with a camera on the inspection. The inspector will also be heading into areas that you won't want to see if you do not need to (the roof, crawl space, under decks, the attic, etc.). Consult your inspector to photograph so that you may see the problem on your own, any possible issues that come up, and be sure you fully understand the issue. Thermal and infrared cameras can provide you and your inspector a look behind walls and flooring that you wouldn't have the ability to get without ripping out flooring or drywall. Since this technology is so accessible, your home inspector must make use of these pieces of equipment during the inspection (although some home inspectors might charge an extra fee for this service).  

Do Your Own Pre-Inspection

  You can really learn a lot about a home just by looking at it. Make sure you do your home inspection and note any possible troubles. Look at walls and ceilings for any signs of water damage (discoloration, stains, etc.). Try all of the light switches and outlets you can to make sure that the electrical layout makes sense. Peek in the electric panel to find out whether there are any possible wiring issues (search for new cable, old wiring which isn't hooked up, etc.). On the exterior of the home, look for drainage issues, areas with peeling paint, around decks and porches, inspect the siding, etc.. Going into an inspection, you should have a fantastic idea of things you would enjoy your inspector to pay attention to. Learn more about performing your pre-inspection here.  

Pay Close Attention to the Roof

  A home's roof plays a huge role in maintaining the interior in good shape. It's also among the most expensive and labor-intensive pieces of a home to replace. Attempt to find out when the roof was last replaced, the age of the shingles, and whether or not any warranty exists. Make sure that your home inspector really goes up on the roof during the inspection (unless it's physically dangerous to do so)? There's only so much you can view while standing on the ground. Keep eyes peeled for curling or missing shingles and pay particular attention to anywhere there's a chimney, vent, or skylight. You could even see indications of water problems in the attic if it is accessible. Find out more about roofing difficulties and repairs that are necessary here.  

Look for Cosmetic Fixes

  Freshly-painted walls and new flooring are often signals that a homeowner cares about the home they're selling. But sometimes these items can also be cosmetic cover-ups of inherent issues. Pay attention to any fixes that are suspicious part of a floor repaired or patched or only portion of a wall is painted? And request your inspector to have a look.  

Test GFCIs

  GFCI outlets are part of the building code in rooms where moisture exists (kitchen, bath, laundry area, etc.). Your inspector will understand how to examine these outlets and bigger electric issues could be hinted at by even malfunctioning or non-working GFCI outlets. Learn the best way to test GFCIs here.  

Look in the Attic

  A well-functioning attic is Imperative to protecting a House. If your home inspector can get into the loft without trampling insulating material, you can often learn a great deal. One very frequent inspection red flag is improper venting of toilet fans into the attic (rather than extending the port all of the ways through the roof). All it's doing is sending moisture and humid air to the attic where it can lead to rot, mold, or even worse if your bathroom fan is ventilation directly into the attic. It's also not up to code. If possible, have your inspector check for attic air escapes. While you can fix these attic air leaks, an attic with air leaks could have potential issues with insulation, moisture, mold, or worse.

Give the Pipes a Try

  Coping with a slow drain or losing water pressure can be indicators of plumbing issues. Make sure bathtubs and shower pans are leak-tested. And possess the home inspector to inspect the water primary and shutoff points (very useful knowledge if/when you take ownership of the property).    

HVAC and Water Heater

  Beyond making certain the HVAC  and water heater work correctly, you ought to find out how old each one is and the final time each received service. Repairing a furnace or water heater can be pricy, so if one is needing replacing you need to bear this in mind while putting together your deal on the house. You can also get a feel for the way the HVAC is cared for by assessing the HVAC filter. A filter that's in evident need of replacement can hint at other postponed or forgotten maintenance.

  Don't Forget Your Inspector:

  Akin to the way a doctor needs to focus their attention on their patient, a home inspector needs to focus their attention on the homr. While you're more than welcome to walk around with your home inspector, it's better to leave them to do their job. Imagine if the doctor had to divide his attention away from the surgical table to field a question? Once the doctor's attention has been taken away from his patient, something bad could happen. As a home buyer, it's your right to ask questions of your inspector, however, like the surgery described above, are best left for after the procedure/inspection is complete. No matter what, you need an inspector and an inspection company that has your back before, during, and after the home inspection process. These guys know home inspections and what it takes to do all of the above and more. Read the full article

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EPIC INSPECTING OPENS TO PROVIDE HOME INSPECTIONS ALONG THE TREASURE COAST OF FLORIDA

  FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, USA, June 1, 2020 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Epic Inspecting has announced that its new home inspection services are now available throughout St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, and Palm Beach Counties. Its E.P.I.C (Exclusive Property Inspection Company) services are available at affordable rates all along the Treasure Coast area, providing home sellers, home buyers, and real estate agents with peace of mind and protection against the unknown.   The management and inspection team at Epic Inspecting have a combined 50+ years of experience and ability to provide complete home inspections, air quality testing, water quality testing, and wind mitigation inspections, as well as termite inspections and the four-point inspections that cover home infrastructure systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing) for insurance companies and real estate agents.   Nick Stewart, co-owner of Epic Inspecting, wants real estate brokers and homeowners to know that "We are starting Epic Inspecting to provide quality service that's second to none to our customers. We believe that performing a thorough and honest inspection is a prime way to bring peace of mind to real estate agents and buyers alike. Taking care of our clients is what we do. Period"   Epic Inspecting offers a robust set of post-inspection warranties to enhance peace of mind, including a 90-day all-home warranty and a 5-year roof leak warranty. In addition, the firm offers appliance inspections that include an appliance recall check for life. Each inspection covers more than 400 vital points, and real estate agents and homebuyers receive a detailed inspection report that makes all findings clear and easy to understand.   Amongst the many promotions that EPIC is offering since opening their doors, their June promotion is by far what sets them apart from the pack. The first 10 home inspections during the month of June will be FREE. This will allow agents, brokers, and buyers to experience the EPIC difference. Epic Inspecting also offers a utility concierge service that home buyers find incredibly helpful. They take care of arranging for all utility connections, including electrical, gas, water, trash, sewer, TV, internet, and phone, all free to the home buyer.   Epic Inspectings' rates are designed to be exceptionally affordable, and significant discounts are offered for nonprofit organizations. The company abides by a strict code of ethics, and if it should happen to miss anything in an inspection, it will conduct a complete re-inspection for free. Among the extra benefits, Epic Inspecting provides with every inspection are RecallChek, the Platinum Roof Protection Plan, SewerGard, the Termite Protection Plan, MoldSafe, and a 90-day no deductible warranty— all of which are included for free. All the professional inspectors working with Epic Inspecting are fully licensed, InterNACHI certified and insured.   With its opening on the Treasure Coast, Epic Inspecting intends to ease the way for real estate professionals to get the inspections they need while providing peace of mind for homeowners and buyers. Book online now, or call us today   Thomas DeCatter EPIC Inspecting +1 772-202-0732 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook Read the full article

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EPIC INSPECTING OPENS TO PROVIDE HOME INSPECTIONS ALONG THE TREASURE COAST OF FLORIDA

  FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, USA, June 1, 2020 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Epic Inspecting has announced that its new home inspection services are now available throughout St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, and Palm Beach Counties. Its E.P.I.C (Exclusive Property Inspection Company) services are available at affordable rates all along the Treasure Coast area, providing home sellers, home buyers, and real estate agents with peace of mind and protection against the unknown.   The management and inspection team at Epic Inspecting have a combined 50+ years of experience and ability to provide complete home inspections, air quality testing, water quality testing, and wind mitigation inspections, as well as termite inspections and the four-point inspections that cover home infrastructure systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing) for insurance companies and real estate agents.   Nick Stewart, co-owner of Epic Inspecting, wants real estate brokers and homeowners to know that "We are starting Epic Inspecting to provide quality service that's second to none to our customers. We believe that performing a thorough and honest inspection is a prime way to bring peace of mind to real estate agents and buyers alike. Taking care of our clients is what we do. Period"   Epic Inspecting offers a robust set of post-inspection warranties to enhance peace of mind, including a 90-day all-home warranty and a 5-year roof leak warranty. In addition, the firm offers appliance inspections that include an appliance recall check for life. Each inspection covers more than 400 vital points, and real estate agents and homebuyers receive a detailed inspection report that makes all findings clear and easy to understand.   Amongst the many promotions that EPIC is offering since opening their doors, their June promotion is by far what sets them apart from the pack. The first 10 home inspections during the month of June will be FREE. This will allow agents, brokers, and buyers to experience the EPIC difference. Epic Inspecting also offers a utility concierge service that home buyers find incredibly helpful. They take care of arranging for all utility connections, including electrical, gas, water, trash, sewer, TV, internet, and phone, all free to the home buyer.   Epic Inspectings' rates are designed to be exceptionally affordable, and significant discounts are offered for nonprofit organizations. The company abides by a strict code of ethics, and if it should happen to miss anything in an inspection, it will conduct a complete re-inspection for free. Among the extra benefits, Epic Inspections provides with every inspection are RecallChek, the Platinum Roof Protection Plan, SewerGard, the Termite Protection Plan, MoldSafe, and a 90-day no deductible warranty— all of which are included for free. All the professional inspectors working with Epic Inspecting are fully licensed, InterNACHI certified and insured.   With its opening on the Treasure Coast, Epic Inspecting intends to ease the way for real estate professionals to get the inspections they need while providing peace of mind for homeowners and buyers. Book online now, or call us today   Thomas DeCatter EPIC Inspecting +1 772-202-0732 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook Read the full article

[epicinspecting]

EPIC INSPECTING OPENS TO PROVIDE HOME INSPECTIONS ALONG THE TREASURE COAST OF FLORIDA

  FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA, USA, June 1, 2020 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Epic Inspecting has announced that its new home inspection services are now available throughout St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, and Palm Beach Counties. Its E.P.I.C (Exclusive Property Inspection Company) services are available at affordable rates all along the Treasure Coast area, providing home sellers, home buyers, and real estate agents with peace of mind and protection against the unknown.   The management and inspection team at Epic Inspecting have a combined 50+ years of experience and ability to provide complete home inspections, air quality testing, water quality testing, and wind mitigation inspections, as well as termite inspections and the four-point inspections that cover home infrastructure systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing) for insurance companies and real estate agents.   Nick Stewart, co-owner of Epic Inspecting, wants real estate brokers and homeowners to know that "We are starting Epic Inspecting to provide quality service that's second to none to our customers. We believe that performing a thorough and honest inspection is a prime way to bring peace of mind to real estate agents and buyers alike. Taking care of our clients is what we do. Period"   Epic Inspecting offers a robust set of post-inspection warranties to enhance peace of mind, including a 90-day all-home warranty and a 5-year roof leak warranty. In addition, the firm offers appliance inspections that include an appliance recall check for life. Each inspection covers more than 400 vital points, and real estate agents and homebuyers receive a detailed inspection report that makes all findings clear and easy to understand.   Amongst the many promotions that EPIC is offering since opening their doors, their June promotion is by far what sets them apart from the pack. The first 10 home inspections during the month of June will be FREE. This will allow agents, brokers, and buyers to experience the EPIC difference. Epic Inspecting also offers a utility concierge service that home buyers find incredibly helpful. They take care of arranging for all utility connections, including electrical, gas, water, trash, sewer, TV, internet, and phone, all free to the home buyer.   Epic Inspectings' rates are designed to be exceptionally affordable, and significant discounts are offered for nonprofit organizations. The company abides by a strict code of ethics, and if it should happen to miss anything in an inspection, it will conduct a complete re-inspection for free. Among the extra benefits, Epic Inspections provides with every inspection are RecallChek, the Platinum Roof Protection Plan, SewerGard, the Termite Protection Plan, MoldSafe, and a 90-day no deductible warranty— all of which are included for free. All the professional inspectors working with Epic Inspecting are fully licensed, InterNACHI certified and insured.   With its opening on the Treasure Coast, Epic Inspecting intends to ease the way for real estate professionals to get the inspections they need while providing peace of mind for homeowners and buyers. Book online now, or call us today   Thomas DeCatter EPIC Inspecting +1 772-202-0732 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook Read the full article

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What's a Pre-Listing Inspection?

Many sellers might not understand that they have the option to find a pre-listing home inspection - a home inspection they cover themselves before ever putting their house in the marketplace. In general, the home buyer provides the completion of a successful home inspection for a contingency to an offer on a home. Once buyers run the inspection they have the power to negotiate with the seller about who pays for any necessary repairs, and they even have the power to walk away from the deal entirely. When sellers have a pre-listing home inspection, they could get ahead of problems a buyer might find in the home and reduce the likelihood a deal will fall through. A pre-listing inspection serves several benefits not only for the seller but also for their agent.   A pre-listing inspection brings several advantages to a seller:  

1. It allows the seller to make repairs before listing the home

If a homeowner has a pre-listing inspection, he or she will then be aware of every major issue present in the home and can make repairs to make it a lot easier to market. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors explained that making repairs before listing a home will help it show better. If the seller chooses to not make the repairs, he or she can at least be alert to issues within the home, which permits them to fully disclose this information to prospective buyers. Additionally, it gives the seller more leverage during negotiations because they will not be unprepared. NACHI also said sellers may be able to convince buyers to waive their home inspection contingency if the homeowner presents them with a copy of the pre-listing inspection.  

2. It ensures a smoother, more efficient transaction

When issues are found during a pre-listing inspection, the seller can either have them repaired before placing the home on the industry or opt to disclose the problems to prospective buyers. Either choice will make the home sell faster because it will prevent the seller and buyer from getting entangled in long negotiations following the buyer has an inspection. Because the issues have been revealed ahead of time, the purchaser will not be surprised by anything and will be less inclined to walk off or demand a lower price for your home. As clarified in Home Gain, a provider of online advertising programs that connect real estate professionals with buyers and sellers, homes that provide buyers with the outcomes of a pre-listing inspection give the buyer the chance to decide well in advance if he or she wants to buy a home despite its issues.  

3. It helps the seller and their agent more accurately price the home

Sellers who don't want to fix the issues revealed through a pre-listing inspection may factor the repair costs into the asking price of the home and explain to buyers who while the home includes certain issues. The buyer will be purchasing it for a lower price consequently. Conversely, sellers who do opt to make repairs or that come up with a clean home inspection can ask buyers for more money.  

4. It Can Save the Seller Money

When issues are discovered during a buyer-initiated home inspection, the buyer and seller will enter into discussions to ascertain who will pay for the expenses of repairs. In general, buyers often significantly overestimate the costs of these fixes, and the seller loses far more money than he or she'd have paid to have finished the repairs before listing your home.  

5. It Builds Trust

NACHI called a pre-listing inspection"the ultimate gesture in forthrightness on the part of the seller" By demonstrating any problems in advance, the buyers may feel confident they are making a bargain with a trusted person who isn't trying to hide anything.  

The best way to pre-listing inspection advantages real estate agents

There are a few of ways that a pre-listing inspection specifically helps sellers' list agents:  

1. It helps them advertise the home

NACHI explained when a pre-listing inspection reveals no problems, real estate agents may use it as a marketing tool to help sell the home.  

2. It helps the sellers appreciate them and it may even lawfully protect them

The Foundation of Real Estate Associates clarified that real estate agents are obligated to act in the best interest of their clients, and neglecting to at least discuss the option for a pre-listing inspection with them isn't doing so. If customers eliminate money and time that could have been saved using a pre-listing inspection, they may blame the agent for not telling them about the potential. Alternately, sellers will love an agent who takes the opportunity to go over every possible choice. FREA said discussing pre-listing inspections with a customer may even protect the agent from being sued for failing to act in the customer's best interest.  

3. It assists them smoothly broker the deal

NACHI explained that when a seller and buyer enter into discussions following the buyer's home inspection, the real estate agent normally must figure out repair estimates and schedule repairs at a very short quantity of time. A pre-listing inspection will remove this last-minute hurry as buyers, sellers and agents will be aware of issues far beforehand of those negotiations. Because of this, the deal will proceed more smoothly and is more likely to be finished. Robert MacFarlane, a real estate broker in San Diego, highlighted to FREA the importance of time in regards to making these bargains. "Time is of the essence in contracts, and scrambling to find reasonable bids for repairs can leave my seller with no option other than to provide funds to the purchaser at the close of escrow," MacFarlane said. A pre-listing inspection might cost the homeowner/seller a few hundred dollars, but it could save him or her tens of thousands. Even more, it is going to save the seller a lot of time and stress, and it'll help the agent supply the best possible customer service. When looking to sell your home, contact the premier inspection company on the Treasure Coast of Florida. They service St. Lucie County, Martin County, Indian River County, and Palm Beach County Read the full article