REAL ESTATE RADAR with SARAH JANE JOHNSON, REALTOR

With Gray Real Estate Elite

Welcome to "REAL ESTATE RADAR with Sarah Jane". Read more to find out what inspectors can do for you when you are buying or selling! Today we are interviewing, Shannon Tice, with Total Home Inspections.

Sarah Jane: What does a home inspection entail?

Shannon Tice: A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual inspection of the accessible areas such as structural aspects, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical, water, and sewage. An inspector should also be visually inspecting the roof, foundation, the home's exterior, and the surface drainage near the home.

Sarah Jane: What do you NOT inspect during a home inspection?

Shannon Tice: While there are variations of what home inspectors look for, there are areas that are typically not inspected in a standard home inspection. These may include pest control, swimming pools, the presence of asbestos, the presence of radon gas, indoor air quality, lead paint, and toxic mold. These items can be included in your home inspection with a prior agreement between the buyer and the inspector, however, the inspector should be trained in these areas and carry the proper insurance for these duties.

Sarah Jane: If a person is listing their home, what are some common repairs you find that you would advise a seller to fix prior to listing their home?

Shannon Tice: Home inspections are not only for the Buyer but can also be very beneficial to the Seller. If you are selling your home, and not sure what repairs your home may need, consider contacting a local inspector to identify any problem areas before it goes on the market. To attract a wider pool of buyers and earn a higher selling price for your home, make sure the following items are in good working condition.

• Roof: The roof is very important to the sale of your home. If it is in your budget, make sure all storm damage has been repaired and the roof is not missing any important items.

• Foundation: Foundation problems are also very important to address. Issues like cracks, water damage, and bowed walls are noticeable and can scare away potential home buyers.

• Electrical: Do a room-by-room examination of all electrical switches, circuit breakers, and wiring to make sure all electrical systems are in working order.

• Plumbing: Before listing, make sure your house’s plumbing functions properly. Many buyers won’t be interested if the system needs a lot of repairs. It could be as simple as a leaking pipe or clogged drains.

• HVAC: Most buyers purchasing a home want the heating and cooling system working as intended, so they don’t need to worry about replacing it later on. If you notice any issues, have them repaired as soon as possible.
  
  

Sarah Jane: Any other information you would like to provide that would be helpful to buyers or sellers? Shannon Tice: When it comes to buying and selling a home, it will probably be the largest transaction you will ever have. There are keys to being successful on both sides of the process. Buyers should always…Hire a qualified home inspector who is known and trusted in your area to ensure you’re buying a property that will not have unforeseen costly repair expenses. Clear communication is essential. Make sure you’re hiring the right inspector by doing your homework. What type of properties do you recommend having an inspection?

Shannon Tice: You should consider having an inspection done on any residential or commercial property that will be occupied. These structures could potentially have damage to the roof, foundation, electrical, HVAC, or plumbing. Any structure that you will spend time in, or if it will house expensive equipment or livestock, deserves an inspection to be performed for peace of mind. Usually, there would need to be a prior agreement, between the buyer and inspector, to include extra items like outbuildings or shops.

Sarah Jane: Any other information you would like to provide that would be helpful to buyers or sellers?

Shannon Tice: When it comes to buying and selling a home, it will probably be the largest transaction you will ever have. There are keys to being successful on both sides of the process. Buyers should always…Hire a qualified home inspector who is known and trusted in your area to ensure you’re buying a property that will not have unforeseen costly repair expenses. Clear communication is essential. Make sure you’re hiring the right inspector by doing your homework.

Sellers….You should consider having a “pre-inspection” performed before putting your home on the market. This can make you aware of any areas that need attention and help you to make a profitable transaction. The cost of a home inspection is very minimal compared to the sale price of a home or commercial building. It’s always recommended that you have an inspection performed and your mortgage company may require it. Total Home Inspections LLC is a local company and will always be glad to help with your inspection needs

Sarah Jane Johnson is a local realtor associate at Gray Real Estate Elite. She lives in Ada with her husband, and their four children. Promoting the Ada area through community involvement and helping people buy or sell properties is her passion. Buying or selling? Call Sarah Jane at 918-541-5265, GrayRealEstateOK.com.