Categories Home Inspection

Don’t be Fooled by these Home Inspection Myths

Home Inspection Myths

In the U.S. about 5 million homes undergo inspections each year. As with any large, and growing, industry, there are plenty of falsehoods being circulated and unfortunately, many people don’t know what’s true and what’s just a myth.

While a majority of homes sold receive an inspection, the misconceptions persist. Stick with us to learn what rumors aren’t worth the stress.

 

Myth #1: New homes don’t need inspections.

You can see a list of reasons why new homes need inspections too, here. The main point is though that faulty construction can lead to a number of issues in the future and it’s not uncommon to find a couple of dozen problems during the inspection of a brand new home.

 

Myth #2: Every nook and cranny will be inspected and scrutinized.

A home inspection is a visual inspection; nothing will be dismantled to check efficiency, but rather a few covers or access panels will be temporarily removed to inspect. However, the focus will be on the most essential and high risk areas.

 

Myth #3: Having an appraisal, code inspection, and termite or other hazard inspection cancels the need for home inspection.

While the others are important, they should not be used as a substitute for a full home inspection. Rather each of these inspections should be used as compliments to each other.

 

Myth #4: Inspections only benefit the buyer.

Most inspections are done on behalf of the buyer, but they don’t only benefit the buyers. Prelisting inspections can be hugely beneficial for sellers, and you can schedule one with us here! Additionally, it is recommended that a home undergoes an inspection every ten years regardless of a sale taking place.

 

Myth #5: Inspectors are too fussy.

Professional home inspectors do not point out every small defect or issue. Professionals, like the ones at EIG, are providing an objective examination of the accessible and visible components of a home on the day of the inspection.

 

Myth #6: Inspections are done to flip the negotiation process.

False! Inspectors are giving an educational service, allowing buyers to have a better understanding of the physical state of the home so that they may make smart decisions.

Inspections can actually help eliminate buyer anxiety. When areas of concern are presented, the inspector will not assist in any decision making.

 

Myth #7: There’s no difference between home inspectors.

Possibly the most important falsehood to dispel is the value of an inspector does not matter. Experience, knowledge, and thoroughness are all incredibly important aspects you’ll want to consider when choosing your inspector.

Our experience at EIG speaks for itself; we are aiming to bridge the gap between homeowner and inspector by improving all aspects of an inspection.

 

The Take-Away

Understanding these myths and knowing what to look for when planning your home inspection will allow you to get more out of the inspection process.

Let the pros take care of you today and schedule your own home inspection with EIG!

We have made the scheduling process easier and stress-free. Get in touch with us here!

 

Image attribution

Categories Home Inspection

Common Questions About Home Inspectors

Home Inspectors

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to feel like a real estate master after spending months studying loans, neighborhoods, hours of online house hunting, and reviewing contracts.

But when it comes to the ins and outs of a home and how it functions there’s only one person that can truly serve as an expert: the home inspector.

Home inspectors are the ones who shimmy through crawl spaces, climb up on roofs, and because of this completely hands on approach, they can tell you everything you need to know about your home.

Home inspectors and home owners only come into contact once in a blue moon, so choosing the best inspector and understanding the process can be confusing, no doubt.

If you’re looking for a home inspector now and could use a guide in choosing, check out one of our first posts on how to recognize a great inspector.

Today we want to clear up some common questions and confusions regarding home inspectors:

1. Do States license and regulate home inspectors?

Yes, most states do. In Texas, there are three levels of an inspector license and require classroom training as well as inspections.

The highest level of home inspection licenses requires a combo of 128 hours in the classroom plus one year of real estate experience or an extra 200 hours of classroom training plus guided and indirectly guided home inspections.

At EIG we have a unique mix of backgrounds, ranging from experience in real estate to banking. If you’d like to learn more about our team, you can look here.

We’re proud to offer you high quality inspection services!

2. Many home inspectors have formal education.

As mentioned above, home inspector training programs are extremely thorough and give inspectors all the necessary tools.

In addition to the training, many inspectors have real life experience working in real estate, construction or even appliance repair.

Most is learned on the job and through apprenticeships, but if you book with EIG, you can be sure that we have ample training and experience. Don’t be afraid to ask us about our specific training and educational background!

3. National and State Associations have uniform industry guidelines.

The first industry standards were created long ago by national and state home inspector associations.

Association memberships requires a commitment to a code of ethics as well as following the Standards of Practice.

Associations are wonderful resources for home inspectors as they host and organize national conventions, offer the opportunity to continue education, and ensures that your home inspector is following the rules of procedure and ethics.

Make the right moves

If you’re about to begin the process of moving or buying a home, then you should be thinking about the right home inspector for you.

At EIG we have a team of qualified professionals who are committed to fill the gap when it comes to communication between homeowner and inspector.

We know we will be able to identify any potential issue and answer any questions you have so that you learn in the process as well.

Schedule an inspection with us today, and we’ll show you a great inspector!

 

Image attribution

Categories Home safety

Make Your Home Safe

Home Safe

You spend a lot of time searching for the right home and then even more time negotiating deals.

Why wouldn’t you go the extra mile to make sure your home is safe for you and any person who will be in it?

Putting together a healthy home goes way beyond signing a lease or mortgage; the real work comes once you’ve moved in.

Studies have shown that most accidents or injuries occur within the home and with the right preventative measures you can ensure that you or a loved one don’t become another statistic.

If you’re ready to make sure your house is a safe environment, check out our list of must-haves for your home!

1. Fire Extinguisher

The CDC reported that cooking is the primary cause of residential fires. Save yourself the stress of a basic hazard like a kitchen fire by investing and maintaining your fire extinguisher.

Important note: There are a variety of fire extinguishers including Class A is for cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and plastic; Class B is for flammable liquids; Class C is for electrical appliances; Class D is for flammable metals; and Class K is for fires involving vegetable oil or other fats in kitchen appliances.

2. Smoke Detectors

The facts here are alarming; the U.S. Fire Administration reported that two-thirds of fire deaths were in places that didn’t have functioning smoke detectors.

Maintaining the smoke detectors are just as important as installing them, check the batteries at least once a month to ensure they are in good working order.

3. Contact List

Organize and keep in an easily accessible place, like on the fridge or table near the phone, with a list of emergency contact info, doctor contact, and even your personal information like health insurance and medication list. Here’s a great example of one.

4. Non-toxic Houseplants

If you have pets, this is essential. While plants can be beneficial to the home, like improving air quality, if you have a furry friend some plants like Aloe Vera, Geranium, or Daffodils could be dangerous.

5. Disaster Kit

Depending on where you live this could be a bag ready to go if there’s a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake or even just cut electricity.

You want to include water, at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food, first aid equipment, a flashlight, cash, and copies of important documents.

6. CO Detector

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas making it extremely difficult to detect and a huge threat to any home.

Fireplaces, grills, or even cars in a garage are all proponents of CO. Installing a CO monitor as well as proper maintenance of appliances will ensure your home is safe from this hazard.

Don’t let these items scare you, but rather use them as a precautionary list that can help you mold a safe and healthy home for your loved ones.

If you have any doubts about other safety concerns in your home such as air quality, foundation, or structural faults get in touch with us today!

Image Attribution

Categories Home Inspection, Home safety

DIY Home Maintenance

Home Maintenance

There are many things you can regularly check to ensure your home is in tip-top shape.

And by staying on top of home repairs, you can potentially save yourself from unexpected and costly repairs.

Keep in mind that while checking your home, if you come across some serious issues, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

If you’re the type of person who prides themselves on being “on top of things” or you generally like to be aware of what’s going on in your home, this post will be just what you’re looking for.

However, if you’re the complete opposite and find that you’re often catching up in different situations, this post will be helpful for you too.

It’s easiest to tackle this list if you break it up by seasons. As we are drifting out of summer, we will begin with the Fall checklist.

Fall Projects

As moderate temperatures begin to settle, it’s time to pick up your rake and head outside.

This will be an essential time to prep your home for winter, especially if you live in a harsher environment.

  • Clean gutters
  • Inspect deck for any loose nails or screws
  • Inspect roof for any damage
  • Drain sediment from water heater
  • Insulate exposed pipes
  • Check/clean fireplace
  • Tend to cracks and gaps in driveway or walkway
  • Check for frayed wires

Winter Projects

Make it through another cold season without any problems by checking these items off your to do list!

  • Check toilets and sinks for leaks
  • Inspect hose on washing machine, dishwasher, and ice maker
  • Test sump pump
  • Inspect and replace any bad weather stripping around doors and windows
  • Keep an eye on steps and handrails in case of ice
  • Trim trees and shrubs near your house

Spring Projects

  • Check roof and clean gutters
  • Change AC air filter
  • Schedule a septic system inspection
  • Check concrete slabs for cracks and fill accordingly
  • See if outside faucets suffered from freeze damage
  • Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Summer Projects

  • Review foundation for drainage issues
  • Check basement and crawl spaces for moisture
  • Keep an eye on any pests (termites, ants, etc.)
  • Clean AC filter and bathroom vents
  • Scrub away any mold or mildew build up outside the home

Incorporating these monthly practices into your routine will prove beneficial in the long run.

Remember that these lists are meant to serve as a helpful guide to important home maintenance projects, but if you are serious about taking care of your home and your wallet then you should follow a few more tips monthly, regardless of the season:

  • Clean/replace HVAC filters
  • Clean garbage disposals and kitchen drains
  • Clean range hood filters

How often do you check these items off your to-do list? Are you having doubts about something you found?

While you can be on top of the ball and actively work to keep your home in good shape nothing can replace the touch of a pro.

If you come across anything concerning or you want a professional opinion don’t hesitate to call us today!  

Image attribution