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COFFEE WITH DJINJI

By Djinji Crocker

What to check during a home inspection?

Essential guide for buyers and sellers

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the process of buying and selling property in the United States. Its purpose is to identify hidden problems that aren't always visible during a regular visit and that could lead to significant costs down the road.

Below, we share the most important aspects you should check during an inspection:

1. Roof and structure

Age and condition of the roof

Broken, loose or missing roof tiles

Water stains on ceilings or walls

Cracks in the foundation

Uneven floors

2. Electrical system

Main electrical panel

Exposed or old cables

Grounded outlets (GFCI in kitchen and bathrooms)

Circuit overload

Rusty conduits

3. Plumbing

Water pressure

Leaks under sinks or toilets

Water heater (age and condition)

Drainage system or septic tank

Corroded pipes

4. Air conditioning and heating (HVAC)

Age of A/C equipment

Airflow

Ducts

Thermostat

Strange noises or smells

5. Mold and moisture

Mold in ducts or walls

Musty smells

Previous water damage

6. Windows, doors and insulation

Impact windows or shutters

Damaged seals

Attic insulation

Drafts

7. Household appliances and accessories

Stove, washing machine, dryer

Garbage disposer

Ceiling fans

Smoke detectors

8. Exterior and drainage

Slope of the terrain

Gutters

Water accumulation

Driveway and fences

9. Pests and termites

Termite damage

Rodents

Rotten wood

10. Permissions and codes

Unauthorized extensions

Garage conversions

Remodeling without municipal approval

Buyer's Advice

An inspection doesn't look for a perfect house, but rather to know:

What needs repair?

What is a security risk?

What could generate future expenses?

It also empowers you to:

Negotiate repairs

Apply for loans

Cancel the contract if necessary

Advice for sellers

Conducting an inspection before putting your home on the market can:

Avoid surprises

Accelerate the closure

Build trust

Reduce renegotiations

In conclusion, it is extremely important to always conduct a home inspection before buying it, as this process allows you to identify potential structural, electrical, plumbing, or safety problems that could represent significant expenses in the future. The inspection protects the buyer and provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions, negotiating repairs, or even canceling the transaction if necessary.

For the seller, while a pre-sale inspection is optional, it is highly recommended. It allows them to understand the true condition of their property, address any issues early, and improve the home's marketability, building greater trust with buyers and facilitating a faster, more transparent closing. In both cases, the inspection is a key tool for achieving safer, fairer, and more successful transactions.

For more advice, I am always available to guide and support you throughout the process.

Sincerely,

Your real estate agent,

Djinji Crocker