I'd like to have a professional look at the home before I buy it. What does a home inspector do?

For your own safety, and to make sure you're getting your money's worth in the home you choose, using a professional home inspector is highly recommended. A home inspector will check a home's plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical systems, look for structural problems, and check for roof leaks.

Usually, you call an inspector immediately after you've made an offer on a home. Before you sign any written offer, make sure that it includes an inspection clause or other language that says that your purchase obligation is contingent on the findings of a professional home inspector. The Humphrey Team's contracts automatically contain this important verbiage.

Your home cannot "pass" or "fail" an inspection, and your inspector will not tell you whether he or she thinks the home is worth the money you are offering. The inspector's job is to make you aware of repairs that are recommended or necessary and to familiarize you with the systems of the house.

A seller may be willing to accommodate your request to handle needed repairs, or you may decide that the home will take too much work and money. A professional inspection will help you make an informed decision. In addition to the physical inspection, you may wish to have separate tests conducted on the pool or roof. Generally the seller will provide a termite inspection and will complete the necessary repairs to provide a "clear termite." Talk to The Humphrey Team for information about these inspections and companies in the area that perform them. In choosing a home inspector, consider one that has been certified as a qualified and experienced member by a trade association. The Humphrey Team may refer you to several qualified inspectors.

Remember, the purpose of a home inspection is to help you learn things about the house that are not easily discoverable during your home tour. It is not intended to be a laundry list of minor repairs for sellers to complete.