If you’re thinking of buying a “fixer-upper” for your next home, it’s a great way to get an awesome deal if you’re willing to put in the work.

Even if you think you’re the next Chip and Joanna Gaines, it’s still important to enlist the help of a professional home inspector so you know you’re getting a safe piece of property.

What do home inspectors look at when they check out a beat up house? Read on to discover some insight so you can be prepared for your next home inspection.

Foundation and Basement

Most fixer-uppers are older homes, which means there’s always a possibility of foundation issues. One of the most common things that fail a home inspection is a crumbling or damaged foundation.

Your home inspector should look closely at the basement floor and walls. If the home is on a slab or crawlspace, they’ll look for any signs of cracks or crumbling concrete.

Homes without a good foundation will eventually fail. If the fixer-upper has a basement, there should be no visible signs of water, and it should also have the proper drainage or a sump pump.

Keep in mind that some settling is normal, and your foundation won’t be perfect on your fixer-upper home. However, the foundation should still be solid and show very little signs of water damage or other major structural red flags.

Buying a house that needs work can be a great investment if you do it right. That’s why your inspector should always start with the most important part first: the foundation.

Keep in mind that your home inspector is not a specialist in this particular area. If they give you a bad home inspection report, you should consider hiring a contractor to make repairs, or walk away from the deal.

What do Home Inspectors Look at in Terms of Safety?

Many fixer-uppers could be rife with problems you can’t see. During your inspection, the home inspector will likely look for dangerous building materials.

Asbestos can be fine if it’s undisturbed, but if you’re planning to remodel, this material can be deadly. Any signs of asbestos must be reported, and you should consider paying for an abatement.

Lead-based paint is also common in most older homes. If this is present, you should at least consider applying a coat of primer and new paint over the existing paint colors.

Keep in mind that your home inspector may not have all of the tools to test for these building materials. They can, however, point out any red flags and make recommendations for you to get everything professionally tested.

Visible mold and mildew are other potential health hazards that can be common in a beat up house. Over time, water can leak and seep into the walls or floors, resulting in dangerous mold and rotting wood.

When it comes to things like radon, you’ll need to pay for a radon test separately. Do your diligence to ensure that your fixer-upper is safe before you make the deal.

Besides dangerous materials, the inspector will also take a look at the roof. If the roof looks like it’s sagging or missing a lot of shingles, it could be time for a replacement.

Although you can save quite a bit of money on a fixer-upper home, it’s important that the structure is safe. If there are glaring issues, it can become a costly endeavor once you close.

Don’t be afraid to ask your home inspector about any red flags they see. If there are problems that might cost you more than you’re willing to spend, you may want to reconsider purchasing the home.

Electrical, Plumbing, and Sewer

Building codes are constantly changing, but a fixer-upper may not have everything current and up to code. What do home inspectors look at when it comes to the electrical, plumbing, and sewer systems?

Remember, a home inspection is designed to address any problems that are obvious and glaring. You should always get a second opinion if you’re concerned about these major components of the home.

Ideally, the inspector will make sure that all of the outlets are working properly. They’ll also take a close look at the breaker panel to make sure everything is in good condition and working as it should.

Some older homes may have lead pipes for plumbing. The inspector will look for leaks and any other signs that a serious problem could be heading your way.

The sewer or septic system should be clear and working correctly. The inspector should check the sewer line to look for any signs of age or damage.

If your fixer-upper uses a septic system, you may need to contact a septic company to do a thorough inspection. Ask the current homeowner when they last had the septic tank pumped.

In general, signs of water damage, electrical wiring problems, or sewer backups will indicate that you could be due for costly repairs. Ask your home inspector what they’re looking for so you’re confident the home is safe.

Always Inspect a Fixer-Upper First

If you’ve ever asked, “what do home inspectors look at in a fixer-upper,” use this guide to help you make a sound decision. Remember, fixer-upper homes are a wise investment only if they’re safe and structurally sound.

Make a list of any items you see on the report that concern you and talk to the seller about your concerns before you decide to buy.

For more information about our services, visit our website or schedule an inspection today.

Real estate is a booming business. 25 of the busiest residential real estate agencies in Central Ohio reported a total sale of $7.73 billion for the year 2018. The sale of a home is made possible by choosing a good home inspector.

A home inspector is a certified professional who just takes a look at every aspect of the home but is not a specialist in a certain area. Home inspections are great for both the buyer and the seller.

The seller gets to sell the house at the value which is based upon inspection. On the other hand, if you are a buyer, you can negotiate for the selling amount if the inspection reveals that you will have to do substantive repair work.

Home inspections are great for both the buyer and the seller. Have you recently Googled, “How can I find the best house inspector near me?” We can help here!

How to Choose a House Inspector Near Me

The hunt for a home can be a tedious task but all the activities done are to ensure that your final choice of abode will be a great one. Aside from the 10 things you need to know when buying Ohio real estate, you need to know the home well. Inspection by a professional is recommended as they will be able to advise you in detail after they have a keen look at the house.

An online search or a look at the Ohio business directory may bring up a number of home inspectors so you need to sift through them carefully so as to make the right selection. You can also ask for referrals to a home inspector near you or search for a home inspector based in Ohio on the ASHI site.

Factors to Consider as You Look for a Good Home Inspector

Choosing a home inspector requires that you look into various factors to make the right pick. A good home inspector may not necessarily advise you whether you should buy a home or not, but they will give you a detailed report of the findings. Here are some of the factors to consider which act as a guide on how to find a good home inspector:

Check the Inspector’s Reputation and Reviews

To get the best inspector, you can consider having a look at the reviews submitted by their past clients. While some may seem to be sponsored reviews, you can have a look at online reviews that have raw feedback and the company has no control over. You can also ask the inspector for references and check their credentials.

Do not be shy to ask questions until you are satisfied that they will provide good services. If they have a good reputation, they are professional and provide reliable services.

Get an Inspector Who Wants Your Presence During the Inspection

A good inspector is one who will require or recommend that you are present during all inspections. This will ensure that you will have a good look into the issues rather than just waiting for the report.

You will also get a first-hand look at the home and master every nook and cranny. You will be able to negotiate better when coming to a sale agreement with the real estate agent.

Professional Membership

Check if the inspector is a member of the professional inspector associations such as ASHI and InterNACHI. While this may not be an indication of the quality of services provided and their expertise, it gives you comfort that their training and professionalism has been approved.

Also, the home inspector should be governed by the InterNACHI Code of Ethics. Don’t hesitate to ask your preferred inspector if they adhere to these set of codes in conducting their business.

Research on Their Certifications and Experience

To make a good choice, you will have to research the home inspector. Know how long they have been in the home inspection business and how many inspections they have done.

Specifically, you can ask if they have offered services to Home buyers in Northeast Ohio cities like Cleveland, Ashtabula, Perry, Conneaut, Geneva, Madison, Jefferson, Andover, Mentor, and Willough. It is also important that you find out if they do it as a full-time job and if they have done professional courses.

Check Their Inspection Reports

A good home inspector will have nothing to hide and they will provide sample reports upon requests or even better, they will display the reports on their website. A good report includes photos, is well-formatted and is clearly written. It also includes the identification of the defect, an explanation of why it matters and a suggestion of how it can be fixed.

Know the Scope of the Inspection

It is advisable that you request the home inspector to inform you what they shall look into and what they will not inspect. It is common for a house inspector to have a checklist of the things that they will check.

These checklists will normally include the attic, foundation, basement, appliances, electric connections, and the heating and cooling system. If they are going to look at the roof, here are 7 roof problems that your home inspector will look for.

Cost

The cost of hiring a home inspector is also a factor that you should consider. It is necessary that you look at this as a useful cost and not an expense because the decision you make to buy a home will be a life-long one. Not having a home inspected may lead to you missing out on some parts that are faulty and this will cost you in the long run.

The cost should also be within your budget. Although a higher cost is considered to be directly related to a higher quality of service, you should ensure that you make a good choice that is worth it.

Getting a House Inspector near Me

We hope that you now have the answer to “Where can I get a good house inspector near me.” We carry out home inspections in the Northeast Ohio area and we can make your hunt for a good home easier.

You can schedule an inspection to get our services.

Are you currently in Ohio’s homebuyer’s market? Searching for a new home can be a stressful time when considering all of the different factors to be on the lookout for. You want to find a home that fits into your budget, that has all of the features you need, is in the right location, and is safe for you and your family.

Ensuring that your home is safe to live in is an essential part of the home-buying process that you don’t want to skip over. That’s why you need to hire an Ohio home inspector. A home inspector is a valuable tool to have in your back pocket when searching for your dream home or next project.

If you’re still on the fence about whether hiring an inspector is a good investment for you or not, then you’ll want to continue reading below. Here are 8 things you should know before hiring an inspector for your possible future home!

1. Lower Your Home-Buying Risks

There are several risks associated with buying a new home. If you have the possibility of lowering the number of risks you’re taking on, then why not do so? There’s plenty of details that go into buying a home, and if you’re not an investor, then you’re most likely not a pro at buying houses.

Buying this house is also most likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make, so it’s essential that you do it right. A home inspection will determine for you if you’re making a good investment or not. For example, if the inspection turns up several repairs or even one or two major ones, then you’ll need to calculate the risks.

You don’t want to buy a home that’s going to empty your savings account. If the inspection comes back with little to no issues, then you know you’re making a good investment.

2. Save Money Down the Road

Hiring a home inspector will cost you money upfront, but it’s worth it in the end. Your home inspector will save you money down the road and save you from some unwanted surprises as well. Whether the inspection finds small issues or major ones, you always have the option to back out of the deal after being notified of them.

Once an inspector inspects the property, you can also ask the seller to reduce the price or fix the issues before you buy the home. Either way, this will save you money rather than buying the home and learning about these issues over time.

3. Have Peace of Mind With a Safe Home

Purchasing a new home for you and your family is a big decision. There are several things to take into consideration to determine if it’s the right home for you. One of the most important things that can bring you peace of mind is knowing that the home you’re buying is safe to live in.

There can be many things hidden inside a house that aren’t seen to the naked eye that could cause safety concerns. Your inspector knows what to look for and will find any of these issues in their inspection. Some of the main things that an inspector will look over are the foundation of the home, the flooring, the roof, the walls, and the entire home in general.

4. Get the Best Price Possible

With an inspector on your side, you’ll get the best price possible. If you need a good reason to negotiate the price with the seller, the result of a home inspection is this reason. Anything that a home inspection reveals is a reason to ask the seller to lower the price.

This ensures you get the best price possible.

5. Ask Your Realtor About Home Inspection Needs

When hiring a home inspector, be sure to ask your realtor about home inspection needs. Your realtor should be able to answer questions you have concerning the inspection process. Talk to your realtor about what specific things an inspector should focus on to suit your home needs.

What’s most important to you? What are considered major issues and what are considered minor ones? Do keep in mind that the seller isn’t obligated to reduce the price or make repairs after an inspection is done, but it is a great negotiation tool.

6. Do Your Research to Hire the Right Inspector

Before you hire an inspector, you want to ensure you hire the right inspector for you. How can you be sure you find the best inspector? Ask your friends and family members for suggestions.

If they’ve worked with a great inspector in the past, they’ll remember the name! You’ll then want to do a bit of your own research. Look up reviews on home inspectors and ask for references. You can also consider interviewing an inspector before making a final decision.

7. Be There for the Entire Inspection

When the inspection does take place, you’ll want to be present for the entire inspection. The inspection could take several hours to complete, but this gives you time to look around your future home and see the possible issues for yourself.

Attending the inspection helps you learn more about your future home as well, which is important as a homebuyer. Remember that a lot of the inspection will happen outside as well, so dress for the weather conditions of the day!

Are You Ready to Hire an Ohio Home Inspector?

Are you currently in the homebuyer’s market and in need of an Ohio home inspector? After reading through this guide, we hope you now know how important it is to have an inspector inspect your home before buying.

When you want to save money and give yourself peace of mind when buying a home, click here to schedule an inspection today!

Finally — you’ve found the home of your dreams!

And because the process wasn’t exactly quick or easy, you can’t sign your contract soon enough. Before you know it, you’ve skipped the home inspection (another few hours? not happening), you’re moved in, and it’s been a couple of months.

Next thing you know, you’ve got a leak that’s ruining your ceiling. Your chimney’s obstructed and your room is covered in soot. Your roof is dropping shingles like raindrops.

Oops. If only you’d gone through the home inspection process, you might’ve discovered these issues before making it official. Skipping this stage is one common regret amongst home buyers.

Trust us — you need an inspection. If not to negotiate a better real estate deal, then for your peace of mind! 

Stick with us while we show you what an inspection looks like here so you’ll understand how crucial it is in the home buying process.

Home Inspection 101

What’s the point of a home inspection?

A certified inspector will run through your home with a checklist which they’ll use to gauge the quality of various areas. Their job is to find problems that you may not see or know about. They give a general inspection of the overall quality of the home.

Take note that this process is a great way to catch some glaring problems — but it’s not 100% foolproof.

An inspector will check your plumbing and electrical work, but they won’t be digging up the ground to inspect your septic. An inspection isn’t to say nothing won’t go wrong that hasn’t yet, but it is diligent enough to prevent a lot of future regrets.

In general, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (or InterNACHI), the following will get reviewed for defects:

• The roof
• The exterior (porches, walkways, doors, trim, and more)
• The basement, foundation, crawlspace, and structure
• The HVAC system
• The plumbing and electrical
• The fireplace
• The attic, insulation, and ventilation
• The doors, windows, and interior

Within each of these categories are multiple questions. Are the state of things safe? Accessible? Present?

The inspector will mark down why or why not in their written report. This report is available for you, the new home buyer, and the home seller to use in your negotiations.

How Long Is the Home Inspection Process?

A good general rule of thumb is to set aside a few hours for the process. It can take as little as 1-2 but may take 3-4 or more. This depends on a few things:

• How large is the house?
• How many defects does the home inspector come across?
• Was the house prepared for inspection?
• How detailed and thorough is your inspector?

It’s likely that the home is prepped for inspection because the seller made it nice for showings. The more the home seller or buyer does to prep for the inspection, the quicker it may be.

Of course, you’re more than welcome to accompany the inspector throughout the process. This allows you to ask questions and learn even more about your (potential) future home. This may add time to the process, though, as the inspector will have to accommodate for your questions.

Here are some examples of essential questions to ask:

• How severe are these problems (if any)? What is the recommended solution?
• Do you have any resources I can call to fix this problem?
• Which problem should I make a priority to fix?

You can also ask for details about the plumbing and electrical, how things work, what problem areas are, and so on. It’s helpful to prepare a list of questions ahead of time to cover all your bases on the day of.

What Happens After the Inspection?

Now, the home inspection process isn’t over when the inspector leaves. This is the time to start negotiating before you finalize the deal on your home.

What happens after the inspection depends on how it went. How many defects did the inspector find, and were they minor? Major? Cosmetic? Material?

Remember, you’re getting the inspection done to inform you of potential problems — so don’t expect a note-free report. It’s likely that there will be various things wrong, whether big or small. Here’s where the negotiating comes in.

You may try to have the seller pay for the fixes or upgrades before you close. Or, they may insist you do it — to which you can negotiate for a lower price on the home. In effect, it’s like you’re receiving a credit for doing the repairs yourself.

Of course, make sure you familiarize yourself with said repairs before agreeing to take on the problems. Understand the costs involved so you don’t wind up paying for somebody else’s problems — that are now your own. 

For major problems, like structural or safety issues, many lenders require you to have proof of a fix before they’ll supply the money.

But when it comes to cosmetic issues, or normal wear and tear, you’ll be on your own for those.

Honey, You’re Home!

Once the home inspection process is over, you can rest easy knowing you’ve done all you can.

This worthwhile inspection will allow you to fix problems you weren’t able to see, negotiate with the seller, and more. It’s a step that shouldn’t get skipped in favor of saving a couple of hours or dollars.

Bottom line? Don’t move in without one. This is one of the biggest investments of your life!

If you’ve found your dream home in the Northeast Ohio area, it’s time to schedule an inspection. Contact us today to speak with an ASHI-certified inspector!

Did you know that your pool can cost you quite a bit of money if it isn’t safe? In fact, one of the most common personal injury claims filed in the US is pool-related slip and fall accidents.

Pools are essentially small ecosystems that need quite a bit of maintenance. That’s not just for the water itself, but for the surrounding areas, as well.

If you have a pool in your yard, it’s important to follow pool safety tips to ensure that this space isn’t dangerous in any way.

Read on for 10 important pool safety tips that you should never neglect.

1. Establish Pool Rules

The first thing to do if you’ve moved into a house with a pool is to establish pool rules. It is important that everyone in your household, as well as any guests you invite over, understand and abide by the rules.

A few key rules to include are no running near the pool, no diving, and solo swimming. Any time your little ones are heading out for some pool time, have them repeat the rules to you and remind them that breaking the rules is dangerous.

2. Install a Fence

One of the most important things you can do is install a tall fence around your pool. You may want to invest in a locking gate, as well, especially if your kids are older or there are a lot of kids in your neighborhood.

If your back door leads straight to the pool area rather than somewhere outside of the fence, you may want to install an alarm system on that door. That way, you know if anyone is heading out to the pool area unsupervised and can stop them before an injury occurs. This is a very important pool safety tip for toddlers.

3. Limit Pool Toys Like Inflatables

Inflatables can be lots of fun and may appear to promote safety by giving swimmers a place to rest above the surface. However, they can pose a hazard if they’re too numerous. Swimmers can get trapped underneath inflatables, especially if another swimmer is on top of it and doesn’t realize what’s happening below.

Make sure that you only allow one or two inflatables in the pool at a time. If you can’t see the bottom of the pool from just about every angle, there are too many inflatables in the water.

4. Use a Pool Cover

When the pool isn’t in use, it’s best to cover it. Chances are good that you already have a pool cover that you break out in the offseason.

It may seem like a lot of work to secure your pool cover every night after use, but it could prevent someone from entering the water without your knowledge.

5. Maintain Chemical Levels and Storage

A lot of chemicals are dumped into the majority of swimming pools to keep them sanitary and balanced. However, an imbalance of any of these chemicals can cause issues like skin irritation and respiratory problems. Make sure that you regularly test your pool water and adjust as necessary.

In addition, store your pool chemical containers in a safe, secure location like a locked shed.

6. Get VGB Compliant

Pool drains create an extremely powerful suction that can pull down even the strongest swimmers, causing physical injuries and potential drowning. In 2008, the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (or VGB Act) was passed. This act requires all public pools to install anti-entrapment drain covers to prevent this suction from harming more swimmers.

The VGB Act does not dictate private swimming pools, so legally you are not obligated to install anti-entrapment drain covers. However, if you want to ensure home pool safety, you should get VGB compliant this summer.

7. Avoid Slippery Building Materials

Are you considering redoing your pool deck or patio? Make sure you think about what materials you’re going to use to build those structures.

It may seem tempting to use materials that are treated with waterproofing solutions. However, make sure that you understand what effect any finish will have before using it. Some waterproof finishes take safe and porous surfaces and turn them into slippery surfaces when wet.

8. Take Your Kids to Swimming Lessons

If you have a swimming pool and you have children, it’s important that your children take proper swimming lessons. There are plenty of community classes available for ages three and up to choose from. That way, if your child does fall into the water, they’ll know what to do to stay afloat and get back out.

9. Stay Vigilant

Whether you’re looking for day to day pool safety tips or pool party safety tips, this one is a no-brainer. Don’t let kids near the pool if you’re not able to keep watch. It’s best to leave distractions like smartphones and magazines inside so that you are on high alert the entire time children are swimming.

10. Get an Annual Home Inspection

There are tons of reasons to get an annual home inspection, and pool safety is one of them. While a standard home inspector won’t get into the nitty-gritty with your pool, they will inspect the exterior of your property, your electrical wiring, and other elements that do have an effect on your pool safety. Plus, having a fresh set of eyes take a look at your property as a whole is a great way to ensure that everything is in working order–and replace or repair what isn’t.

Schedule an Inspection in Northeast Ohio

If you have a pool on your property, it’s important that you follow these 10 key pool safety tips. Pools are a great place to spend your summer, as long as they’re safe, clean, and properly monitored!

Are you in need of a home inspection for your Northeast Ohio property? Are you concerned about more than just your pool safety, alone? Schedule an inspection today to make sure that your property is safe for everyone.

Are you worried about finding a home within your budget? If so, it’s going to take a lot of searching to find your dream home in the right price range. 

Even more important, you want to make sure that you aren’t sacrificing quality to purchase a home for a lower price. If you’re a seller, you want an inspection of your high-quality home to solidify the asking price.

For that reason, you must schedule a home inspection. But be sure to read below to see how passing a home inspection checklist can help you unlock the benefits of a home inspection.

It Reaffirms the Asking Price

As previously mentioned, if you’re a buyer, you want to ensure that you aren’t sacrificing the quality of your future. To buy a discounted home with multiple problems isn’t buying the home at a discount at all. In fact, it could cost you a lot more.

If you’re a seller, then you want to make sure your hard work and dedication to the home doesn’t go to waste. You want maximum value for all the replacements, remodeling, and renovations you’ve put in the home.

A home inspector can significantly help in either case. If you’re the buyer, the home inspection will help you understand the shape that the house is currently in.

If there are any red flags, you’ll be made aware of them in the home inspector’s write-up. This will give you confidence in buying the home at the price you’re comfortable with.

If you’re the seller, then a home inspector can benefit you just as much. Passing their home inspection checklist will help you reaffirm your asking price for the home. If the buyer wants your home and all its benefits, they’ll have to meet your price!

Builds Trust in the Relationship

Spoiler alert: no home is going to receive a 100-percent on a home inspector’s home review. If you’re waiting for that day to come, then you’ll never buy a home. 

There are too many moving pieces in a home for something not to be experiencing wear and tear. The point of the home inspection is to make both the seller and buyer aware of those things moving forward.

This way, when those issues are brought to light, both the buyer and seller can work together to come to a solution. The seller might agree to fix a few issues before selling the home, while the seller might agree to make a few fixes after the sale is done.

For example, if there’s an issue with the home’s foundation, then the home seller might agree to get it fixed in order to get their initial asking price.

More importantly, the home inspection shows that neither side is trying to hide something from the other. It shows that the seller not only wants to sell the home, but they also want the buyer to be happy and confident with the purchase.

The Potential to Pay Less

Obviously, if there are a few issues that are found within the home, it’s going to complicate how the buyer feels about the situation. If you’re the buyer, then you don’t want to invest in their initial asking price, knowing there are costly fixes on the horizon.

In order to compensate for that and give you more confidence in the purchase, you can negotiate the price on the sale of the home. A home inspector gives you all the momentum in how much you’re willing to purchase the home.

In fact, there are many homebuyers that intend on finding flaws within the home so that they can get the number of rooms, bathrooms, square footage, or extra amenities at a lower price.

The money that you save on the home can go towards fixing some of the issues within the home down the line.

For example, if the home inspector tells you that the HVAC system will need to be replaced in a few years, then you can save money accordingly.

Leverage the Advantages

Now for the seller’s side of things. If you just recently had to replace something such as the HVAC system a few years back, you want to be compensated for that expense in your asking price.

When the home inspector makes the buyer aware of the HVAC’s young age, you can use it to solidify the asking price.

But that’s not all! There might be other advantages within your home that you weren’t previously aware of.

Home inspectors will check out things such as the home’s foundation, roof, electrical system, structure, plumbing, and floors. If their report praises any of those aspects of your home, it’s more momentum on your side.

You can actually use the benefits you were made aware of as a reason for either raising your asking price or staying pat at the initial price. You and your agent can use it as a way of getting buyers to view the advantages of your home, rather than the cons of it.

Use the Home Inspection Checklist to Your Advantage

Now that you’ve seen how the home inspection checklist can help you score a sweeter real estate deal, it’s time to schedule an inspection.

Be sure to read this article for more information on the home inspection nightmares you’ll want to avoid as a home seller.

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out by scheduling an inspection and we’ll be happy to assist you further!

The average home stays on the market between 65 and 93 days. That means most homes sell in under three months!

For buyers, making sure they’re able to buy homes quickly can be tough, especially when they’re competing against other buyers for the same house. This leaves many people wondering if they should waive the home inspection contingency when making an offer.

If you’re wondering what happens when you say that your offer on a home requires no home inspection contingency, you’re not alone. Here’s what you can expect if you decide to waive your pre-sale inspection.

When You Waive, You’ll Pay for Repairs

The main purpose of a home inspection is to find out the true condition of the house you’re interested in. Remember, just because a house looks great both inside and out doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden repair issues that can cost you hundreds of dollars.

When you leave the home inspection contingency in place, you can negotiate the cost of those repairs with the seller. You’re free to ask them to fix those issues before closing or ask for credit to take care of the repairs yourself.

However, if you waive the home inspection contingency, you agree to bear the full cost of those repairs on your own. The seller won’t have to lower their asking price or get repairs taken care of before you move in.

Ultimately, it can end up costing you thousands of dollars out-of-pocket that you could otherwise spend furnishing and decorating your new home.

You’ll Need to Find a Different Way to Negotiate

One of the biggest problems with what happens when you waive home inspection contingencies is that you’re no longer able to use the inspection to negotiate. You’ll be unable to use the issues and repairs to lower the purchase price of the house.

This means you’ll need to figure out other ways to negotiate the price with the seller.

If you’re the average homebuyer, this may not be easy. You’ll want to leverage your real estate agent’s expertise to find different ways to lower the asking price. Further, you won’t have an easy out of the contract if you and the seller can’t come to an agreement.

With the inspection contingency in place, you’re ultimately protecting your budget.

You Can’t Terminate the Contract Based on Damage

Deciding that no home inspection contingency is necessary for your property means you won’t be able to terminate your contract if the house has serious damage. Think of it this way: when you buy a house, you may not immediately notice issues and damage.

However, when you tour the property again, you may start to see signs of significant wear and tear. Those issues could cost you more money than you’re willing to spend, even if you love the house.

With the inspection contingency in place, you’re able to terminate the contract based on the discovery of that damage. When you waive it, you’re stuck with the terms you agreed to in the purchase agreement.

You Risk Unwelcome Surprises

The biggest benefit of an inspection is that it helps you identify potential problems with the home before you commit to the purchase. This makes it easy to avoid unwelcome surprises and overly high repair bills in the future.

If you waive the contingency, you must be willing to accept the risk of those future repairs and surprise issues.

As a homebuyer, you need to make sure you’re investing your money in a property that will grow in value. If there’s significant damage to the home, the value may continue to depreciate over time.

You May Make Your Offer More Competitive

Inspection contingencies are a great way to protect buyers from overpaying for a house. However, they’re not ideal for sellers.

Sellers want to make as much money off their homes as possible. This means they’re not going to want to spend money on repairs or reduce the asking price to help you pay for the repairs yourself.

When there are more buyers looking to buy a house than there are homes for sale, sellers can be picky. They’re able to wait to see which buyers will make the simplest offer possible.

If you’re making an offer with an inspection contingency and someone else offers the same price without the contingency, the seller will likely choose their offer. When you’re competing against other buyers for the same property, waiving the inspection contingency is a great way to stand out from others.

You Can and Should Get an Inspection Anyway

Ultimately, you should always get an inspection, even if you decide to waive the contingency when you make an offer. During the inspection, you’ll learn about the possible hidden problems and repairs that can cause major trouble down the line.

This helps you prepare your home maintenance budget once you close on the property, even if you won’t be able to negotiate with the seller.

That said, if you decide to waive the contingency, you’re free to schedule the inspection whenever you feel like. If you prefer to wait until you close on the property, you’re free to.

Should You Ever Say No Home Inspection Contingency Is Necessary?

There may be times when saying that your contract requires no home inspection contingency is in your best interest. However, those times are few and far between. It’s always best to get the house inspected before you buy it so you can make the best financial decision for your family.

If you do decide to waive the inspection contingency, make sure to schedule a home inspection after you buy the property. During that inspection, your home inspector will give you detailed information regarding every potential problem with the house.

The more you know and understand about your home, the easier it is to make sure you stay within your budget. If you’re ready to schedule an inspection for a property you’re interested in, contact us today.

Ohio is one of those states that doesn’t often make the national news. But those who live or vacation here know that it’s far from a boring place to be.

With a mix of big cities and small towns, rolling farm fields, and rocky coastlines, and countless museums, theme parks, cultural spots, and even a National Park, the state offers endless year-round activities for people of all ages.

If you’re a first time Ohio home-buyer, it’s time to check out your new state with some of the best things to do in Ohio in the summer!

The Best Things to Do in Ohio in the Summer

Ohio’s hot summers are perfect for enjoying all of the outdoor activities that the state has to offer. Whether you’re looking for thrills, a relaxing day at the zoo, or even a cool afternoon in a world-class museum, there’s something for every family.

Keep reading to learn 5 of the best things to do in Ohio in the summer.

1. Cedar Point or Kings Island

If there’s one thing that Ohio is known for, it’s the state’s roller coasters.

The so-called “America’s Roller Coast,” Cedar Point, is located in Ohio on the shores of Lake Erie. In fact, climb aboard the Top Thriller Dragster and ride it to the top, and you’ll see that the lake surrounds three sides of the sizeable park.

Cedar Point is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. and is an interesting mix of historic buildings and state-of-the-art rides. The park boasts 72 rides total, of which 17 are coasters.

Whether you like wooden coasters, corkscrews, or coasters so fast you’ll be pinned to your seat, this park has a ride for you. Many of the park’s coasters were the fastest, longest, or largest in the world when they opened.

Cedar Point also features a large kids area perfect for young families. Nearby you’ll find resorts, campgrounds, putt-putt, restaurants, and more, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

If you’ve bought a home in southern Ohio and you’re still busy moving in, a trip to Cedar Point might be a bit far. Luckily, Cedar Fair also operates another park in Ohio, just outside of Cincinnati.

Kings Island may have fewer coasters, but it still has its share of thrill rides and family fun, not to mention a very large dedicated water park.

2. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

If your family loves spending time outdoors, you’ll have plenty of state parks and metro parks to choose from across the state. But what many people don’t realize that Ohio has it’s very own National Park.

Located a short distance from Cleveland, Cuyahoga National Park is over 32,000 acres. It’s home to miles of hiking trails, green grassy fields, and around 100 waterfalls. The highest falls, and one of the most popular sites in the park is Brandywine Falls, at 65 feet tall.

You can hike along a former stretch of the historic Ohio and Erie Canal, go mountain biking, or even play golf in the park. Interactive displays in the park let you take a look at what settlers in the area experienced on farms during the 19th and early 20th century.

Another great family adventure is a trip on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

3. Put-In-Bay

Also located on Lake Erie, Put-In-Bay is one of the state’s best-kept secrets.

You’ll need to take a ferry to this small island, but don’t worry about bringing your car. Most visitors opt to rent golf carts to travel the winding roads of this fun town.

With sparkling blue waters, a marina packed with sailboats and pontoons, quaint shops selling swimsuits and flip flops, and restaurants serving up tropical drinks and key lime pie, you’ll think you’re in the Florida Keys.

If golf carts aren’t your thing, you can bring or rent bikes or even simply bring your car to explore. There are also plenty of places to rent jet skis and kayaks to see the island from the water.

The island features a fully-functional town, with hotels, bed and breakfasts, grocery stores, gas, and more, so you can stay overnight or even for a few days. 

4. Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

In Ohio’s capital city you’ll find a zoo and aquarium that rivals others across the nation.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is divided into several different lands, each with its own unique theming. Your family will feel as though you’ve been immersed in the places that the animals you see are native of.

As the name suggests, the park is home to both a zoo and a small indoor aquarium that’s perfect for escaping the summer heat in the middle of the day.

Kids will love the rides sprinkled throughout the park, including a train through the wilderness, a Dinosaur boat ride, a 1914 carousel, and more. In fact, right next to the zoo is an affiliated mini-theme park called Jungle Jack’s Landing. It features 13 rides, a stingray encounter, and an animal encounters area.

If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, combine your zoo visit with a trip to their accompanying water park, Zoombezi Bay.

5. National Museum of the Air Force

If you’re looking for somewhere to escape the summer heat, look no further than Wright-Patterson Air Force Base just outside of Dayton. Here you’ll find the National Museum of the Air Force.

With more than 360 planes, helicopters, and other Air Force equipment on display, the museum is both fun and educational. You can read about the history of the U.S. Air Force, climb on planes, and even ride simulators.

Nearby the current base is the very location where Orville and Wilbur Wright invented the world’s first aircraft. The museum offers some history of the brothers, while other local exhibits and museums, as well as a dedicated park where the Wrights flew, are also great places to learn about the history of flight.

Enjoying Your New Home

Whether you’re new to the state or simply new to your town, enjoying the best things to do in Ohio this summer is a great way to celebrate your new home!

But before you pack up the car for a weekend of fun, make sure that there’s nothing back home that you need to worry about. Schedule your home inspection today so you can rest easy all summer long!

Are you scheduling a home inspection soon? If so, you’ll want to understand the accompanying report. You’ll receive all sorts of information, so how do you know what’s most important?

Unlike a specialized inspection (such as a roof or foundation inspection), a home inspection will give you feedback on the entire house. The included details aren’t created equal, though.

To help you know what’s most important, we’ve created this guide. Here are the key things to know about and look for on your home inspection report.

The Basics

First, let’s go over the basic information you should see on your report. While details about the home are what you’re after, there are some other important things too.

Make sure the report includes information about when the inspection took place. This may include more details than you’d expect, such as what the weather was like during the inspection. Client information should also be included.

All issues should be listed in detail. Recommended solutions and pictures should be included as well.

What Does a Home Inspection Report Look Like?

The way your report looks depends on who does the reporting. Inspectors use a handful of different formats.

Don’t worry if you were expecting to see a checklist and it looks more like an essay. The important thing is that the report includes all the necessary information.

Remember that this is an overall inspection. So even though you want details, the report won’t be as detailed as a specialized one.

Major Concerns

There are some things that may show up on your report that should be instant red flags. Here are some major things you should watch out for.

HVAC Problems

If the HVAC system isn’t working properly, you could have a major expense on your hands. Explore this issue in detail to see what your potential costs would be to upgrade, fix, or replace.

Outdated or Unsafe Wiring

Unless you’re buying a fairly new home, building codes made have changed since the home in question was built. This could mean the wiring isn’t up to par.

Make sure the home is safely wired and that any problems don’t require any major effort to fix. Otherwise, you’ll have a big project on your hands right off the bat.

Water Damage

Water damage is also a fix you may not want to deal with. This could be because of a leaking roof or other water-related issues. Water leaks lead to mold and other problems that are costly to fix.

Roofing Issues

Purchasing a house that needs a new roof is no fun. So make sure you don’t have any major roofing issues unless you’re willing to fork out the cash to fix them. Even minor issues can be signs of something bigger down the road, so make your decision carefully.

Proper Grading

The property the house sits on should have been graded during construction. If it wasn’t, you may have water draining toward your house, which can cause foundation problems. Your inspector should take note of this situation.

Foundation Problems

The foundation supports the entire house, so any issues here should be a major red flag. Foundation problems are fixable, but make sure you know what the fix requires before purchasing the house.

The Importance of Checklists

When looking at your report, you need to know if anything important was left out. For this reason, it’s great to have a checklist. Several example checklists can be found online.

Even if your inspector doesn’t present his or her report in the form of a checklist, they should be using one throughout the inspection. Don’t hesitate to get a checklist for yourself and make sure that everything on it was looked at.

Don’t assume that everything was checked if it wasn’t brought up on the report. Just because something isn’t mentioned doesn’t mean it was checked and there wasn’t a problem.

Self-Performed Inspection

You may want to perform your own inspection prior to bringing out a professional. This is fine, and it will help you fix potential problems before an official report is created.

However, a self-performed inspection cannot take the place of a professionally done inspection. Use your own inspection to fix obvious, minor issues, but don’t depend on it entirely. In order to complete a purchase, you’ll need a professional inspection and report.

Self-performed inspections are easy enough if you’re selling a house. Since you’re looking to buy someone else’s home, ask the homeowner if you can take the time to inspect things yourself. Or study your checklist before a showing and look carefully as you go through the home.

Home Inspections Aren’t Perfect

A good home inspector will do his or her job thoroughly and give you the best information possible. With their report, you’ll be set to talk to the seller about any issues or move forward with a purchase.

Keep in mind that home inspections aren’t perfect. Even if a house is given a clean bill of health, problems may present themselves after you move in. But, if you use a reliable inspector and get a detailed report, you’ll be able to avoid a lot of problems.

Schedule a Home Inspection Today

Home inspections are vital when you’re shopping for a new home. They give peace of mind about a potential home purchase or raise red flags that you definitely want to know about.

Avoid purchasing a home with major problems by scheduling an inspection today. Your home inspection report will give you all you need to know in order to make a well-educated decision.

Are you ready to schedule an inspection? Click here to get started.

So you think you’ve just found the house of your dreams. From the new wood flooring to the fresh coat of paint on the outside, everything seems perfect.

All that’s needed now is the new home inspection. But there’s nothing to worry about, right?

Wrong.

To an untrained eye, a house may appear to be in pristine condition, but a licensed home inspector could unearth more imperfections than a bad first date.

Don’t let the home inspector’s review surprise you. Here’s a list of 10 surprising problems that a home inspector could discover in the house of your dreams.

1. Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most pressing things new homebuyers should be fearful of. Based on the extent of the problem, water damage can lead to extremely costly repairs — many of which are difficult to spot.

Home inspectors will pay close attention to the house’s landscape. If it slopes towards the house, there’s a good chance that rainwater and melting snow will concentrate towards the foundation of the house and seep inside.

Water damage may also occur from plumbing issues, which may be responsible for visible leaks and discolorations on the house’s ceiling or floors.

Remember that home inspectors can only inspect what they have immediate access to. If leaks are occurring in septic tanks, behind walls, or elsewhere, they may sneak by during the inspection.

2. Bad Roofing

Aged or poorly-installed roofs mean water damage and poor insulation. During a roof inspection, home inspectors search for a variety of problems such as additional layers of shingles or weather damage.

Broken shingles or other damage to the roof of a house may be an easy repair. But if the roofing is old or hasn’t been maintained, it will be an extremely costly replacement that’s likely to break a house sale outright.

3. Dangerous Electrical Wiring

Homes have a much larger electrical load than in the past. Older homes may not have enough amperage to power all of modern life’s amenities.

For example, if there are a limited number of electrical outlets, the homeowners might have to employ several extension cords. These can tax an old electrical system and cause a fire.

Home inspectors will also inspect junction boxes and search for stripped or exposed wiring.

4. Plumbing Issues

Leaks and water damage are only some of the ways that bad plumbing can damage a house. Insufficient water pressure could be signs of other problems, and will also limit the efficiency of your water system.

Home inspectors will examine the age and condition of pipes and seals, along with signs of old leaks and repair jobs from previous owners.

5. Heating and Cooling Systems

Another massive expense is the installation of a new heating or cooling system. Aged units may be on the fritz or lacking enough power to adequately warm or cool the house — especially if renovations have expanded the house.

Insufficient heating or cooling capabilities will cost you an arm and a leg through your electric bill.

If an air vent isn’t receiving air but the system appears to be working correctly, there could also be issues with the ventilation. Some air vents might not even be connected to the system.

6. Poor Insulation

Along with degrading heating or cooling systems, its possible the insulation of the house could be at fault. If you need to add insulation to your home, your heating system will run constantly and still fail to keep your house at a comfortable temperature.

Likewise, if your home doesn’t have proper ventilation, you’ll be dealing with stuffy temperatures in the attic and higher floors as the heat struggles to escape.

7. Structural Damage

Structural damage may be hidden even in houses that aren’t slanted and drooping. While broken trusses in your attic may sound horrifying, the repairs are simple and generally not a safety hazard.

Structural damage around the foundation, or missing structural components, are a more worrying proposition. It’s expensive to fix sloped floors. Cracks in the foundation can be filled with epoxy, but they indicate the land the house is built on may be insecure.

8. Defective Gutters

Gutters are simple things that many potential homebuyers miss. Literally. Sometimes they don’t even notice when they’re missing from the house they want to close on.

A home inspector will certainly note missing gutters, but will also check the condition of the gutters, looking for holes, cracks, or inefficiencies. If your gutter isn’t working adequately, water damage may likely occur.

9. Cosmetic Issues

Home inspectors don’t just list severe problems in their review. They’ll also note cosmetic issues such as a cracked driveway, peeling paint, and old carpets.

This can help you prepare your budget for some of the minor issues that may need work after buying a home.

10. Hidden Problems After a New Home Inspection

Some issues may require a specialized inspection. Housing defects such as pests, termites, mold, or asbestos are not usually covered in a home inspection. Many mortgage loaners also require pest inspections before they’ll agree to loan.

Know what your home inspection will cover, and ask your home inspector if any of these additional housing problems are likely in your area. If so, a follow-up inspection may be a wise investment.

Ease Your Mind With a Home Inspection

While a home may appear perfect in your eyes, you’ll benefit from the peace of mind following a new home inspection. Don’t leave the possibility of serious home problems unchecked.

To ensure your dream home isn’t a ticking timebomb, contact us at Class Home Inspection. We’ll provide a thorough home inspection with qualified ASHI associates.