There is rarely a home in perfect condition, especially if it’s got a few years on it. It is strongly recommended that buyers hire a professional licensed inspector to examine their prospective new home, and that you – the buyer are present during the inspection. As professional Realtors®, we can provide a list of inspectors who meet our standards of satisfactory service.

 

Inspectors provide written reports identifying the conditions that are present and visible at the time of inspection. These reports provide you with a better understanding of the home's general condition and the operational state of mechanical amenities in it.

The list of inspection contingencies usually included in a sales contract has grown over the years. Some are at the buyer's request, while others are required by law, such as the lead based paint disclosure.

 

A home inspection is utilized by an experienced agent to help the buyer understand the true condition of the home and its mechanical systems. When first contracting for a home you are assuming the condition based on seller disclosures and Realtor® comments. If the home inspection does not reveal the same physical condition as represented it is time for your One World Realty, Inc. specialist to step in and help you understand your position in the Contract For Sale you have signed with the Seller, and depending on the type of contract you have agreed to, negotiate to give you the fair market value of the repairs needed.

 

A typical home inspection is also conducted to give peace of mind to you, the buyer regarding the physical condition of the premises, including the operating efficiency of the heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems. Inspections also reveal the soundness of construction and the condition of the appliances, potential radon levels and the presence of asbestos. In Florida any residential property built prior to 1977 must have a lead-based paint disclosure included with the contract and the buyer must be provided a pamphlet explaining the dangers of lead based paint. In today's market with the proliferation of Mold problems it may be a wise idea to conduct an air quality test as well.

Pest inspections, commonly called termite inspections should be performed by a qualified exterminator. The report includes an inspection for active infestation of termites or carpenter ants, as well as certification of damage from prior infestations. In some areas, the inspector also checks for dry rot, fungi or water damage.

Municipal-code compliances are required by many municipalities in the form of a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) on new sales and re-sales. This certification from a licensed building inspector confirms that a premise is ready and fit for occupancy, and that its intended use is in compliance with building codes and zoning requirements.

 

Health code compliance is a certification that covers the purity of the water supply, if privately provided, and the proper design and functioning of waste disposal systems, including septic systems.

Federal flood control is required by most mortgage commitments and is a verification that the property is not in a flood zone or has flood insurance if it is.

 

A buyer's pre-settlement inspection is an entitlement on the day of transfer of title and it is a common practice for the buyer to inspect the property immediately before closing. This inspection avoids possible recriminations afterwards, and ensures a satisfactory transfer. It is recommended that your Realtor® be present at this inspection.