The Top Five Common Misconceptions About Home Inspections
Home Inspections are a fairly new piece of the real estate puzzle. Unheard of in North America prior to the mid-1970s, this consulting service is now a standard part of most real estate transactions. However, its relative newness, combined with the fickle nature of the housing market and the dramatic commentary on some home improvement television programs, makes it an often misunderstood entity.
While homeowners recognize the importance of a Home Inspection, few are familiar with the details – including what is involved and how it works. There are several misconceptions and we’ll look at our top five here.
1. Exclusively for Home Buyers
Home Inspections are not just for home buyers; they actually make great sense for sellers. We have witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of Sellers’ Home Inspections in the last few years. In 2011, 22% of all Carson Dunlop inspections were Sellers’ Home Inspections. In 2012, that jumped to 27%. During the spring and fall markets, up to 40% of inspections completed are for sellers.
Sellers’ Home Inspections work for both sellers and buyers. They help the process in many ways, resulting in faster sales, increased comfort levels, fewer renegotiations, reduced uncertainty and lower liability. To learn more about the benefits of having a Sellers’ Home Inspection, please click here.
2. Only Needed for Older Homes
Many feel that Home Inspections are only valuable for older homes. However, when it comes to homes, age is just a number. Newer properties often have problems, frequently the result of original construction issues or neglected maintenance. Home Inspectors provide significant value for new homes – including assistance with warranties. It is important not to judge a book by its cover; Home Inspectors see beyond the aesthetics of a new home.
3. You need a PhD to Understand Your Report
Inspection reports don’t have to be complicated. They don’t have to include technical jargon, complex symbols and legends, illegible handwriting, or indecipherable notes. Horizon, Carson Dunlop’s premier report writing solution, allows inspectors provide an easy-to-read electronic report that includes photos and illustrations and ballpark costs to address issues. With Horizon, Home Inspectors give their clients the information they need to make a buying decision, and great advice for the long term, helping them to protect what may be their largest investment. To view a sample of a Horizon Home Inspection report, please click here.
4. Take Place Monday through Friday
4. Take Place Monday through Friday
The world of real estate does not operate on a Monday to Friday, 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do Home Inspectors. Our goal is to meet our clients’ needs, so we perform inspections on weekends as well. That’s right - you might not have to take time off work to attend your Home Inspection. And if you need to book an inspection during off-hours, most Home Inspectors have a real-time online booking service.
5. Require Planning and Advanced Notice
A large number of home buyers forgo their Home Inspection because they think they cannot schedule an inspection on short notice. In reality, Home Inspections can often be performed the same day they are requested. Horizon’s scheduling tool helps keep inspectors organized so booking a Home Inspection is not the hassle many believe it to be. Many only require a few hours of notice, can be requested online, and take just a few minutes to set up.
Home Inspection is an essential professional consulting service for more than just buyers looking at heritage properties. Clear reports help all buyers make an informed decision on homes of all ages. Setting up an inspection is fast and easy, and resources like Horizon are helping Home Inspectors change the perception many have of this new service.
This article was provided by Carson Dunlop. Horizon, Carson Dunlop’s Home Inspection report writing system, is a cloud-based solution that gives Home Inspectors all the tools and resources to successfully manage and grow their business. Horizon was built for Home Inspectors, by Home Inspectors, which means it is simple, intuitive and effective. With exceptional customer service and technical support, making the switch has never been easier. For more information, please visit carsondunlop.com or call 800.268.7070.
