Why Wise Buyers Get a Home Inspection

Why Wise Buyers Get a Home Inspection

The list of things that can be wrong with a new home is endless, so don't sign on the dotted line until a reputable home inspector gives you the all clear.

The cost of an inspection is nothing compared to your purchase price. It's also nothing compared to what you will pay for unexpected repairs if you don't have a home inspection.

Most houses have defects or need repairs, and many problems can be serious. A home inspection will point out any safety hazards and alert you to major repairs that will be necessary.

A home inspector is a jack-of-all-trades who is familiar with everything from structures and electrical and plumbing systems to insulation, heating and cooling systems, and roofs.

During an inspection, the inspector will make an intensive visual examination of your home, concentrating on areas such as the foundation, exterior walls and roof, attic, basement, and garage, electrical, plumbing and heating system, and the home's interior.

The inspector should then present a written report that details findings and suggests repairs. It's always advisable that you attend the inspection, which may take two to three hours. But don't expect the home inspector to provide cost estimates. Your best bet is to contact two to three contractors.

When looking for a qualified home inspector, don't overlook recommendations from friends or your real estate agent, but be aware that there are other resources to help you.

The National Association of Home Inspectors Inc. (NAHI) provides standards of practice and a code of ethics, as well as training courses for potential members. Some states now license home inspectors, but many do not. In states that don't, it's important to establish that the inspector is qualified and is a member in good standing of an organization such as NAHI. The Better Business Bureau can also help you.

Remember that the inspection report won't guarantee you're set forever once the suggested repairs are completed. Houses still need regular maintenance and repair, and as the homeowner, that's your job.

You may also like:

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Your Satisfaction Is My Success

Izabella Lipetski www.BayFamilyHomes.com

Direct: (510) 506-2072

CalBRE #: 01372992

#Izabella #luxuryrealestate #bayarea #luxury #realestate #milliondollarlisting #firsttimehomebuyers

#Alameda #Pleasanton #Danville #SanRamon #California

3 Ways to Offset the Holiday Blues

If you hate the holiday season, you're not alone. Research shows that a significant number of people actually become downright depressed as feelings of loss or loneliness, anxiety over money, and even stressful situations, like parties, take a toll.

Following are three timely tips to help you survive the season:

Slow Down:  One of the most commonly cited reasons for hating the holidays is the combination of pace and expectations. Everything from shopping to hosting a holiday party can quickly become overwhelming. Learn how to slown down.

Have It Your Way: Sometimes the traditions that we know and love are the ones that bring back the toughest memories. Experts suggest replacing them with new memories by doing something different like going to the beach, splurging on a spa visit or pursuing other unique activity distinctly your own.

Budget:  Financial difficulties are another cause of holiday stress. Establish realistic expectations or simply opt out of gift giving altogether. Instead, consider making a donation or volunteering time on behalf of someone.

Four Remedies if Your House Just Won't Sell

Wondering why your home hasn't sold yet? Is it due to bad marketing or the economic crisis?

Probably not. According to experts, the real reason your home hasn't sold is probably a lot less complex - and easier to fix -than you might imagine.

Price: The number one reason most homes do not sell is that they aren't priced competitively. It's important to price the home right when first putting it on the market. The right price attracts attention. Once buyers see a home on the listings month after month, they assume something is wrong.

Bad Impression: Clutter, grime and lack of cleanliness are three huge reasons why your home might not sit well with potential buyers. Ask your agent for an honest appraisal of the property, and then take action before listing.

Taxes, Insurance and Homeowner Association (HOA) Fees:  High property taxes, inability to obtain affordable insurance and escalating HOA fees can dramatically impact the desirability of a given property. Take time to shop around for the best insurance rates, provide a complete breakdown of services and other benefits derived from the HOA fees, and consider petitioning for an evaluation of property taxes if appropriate.

Showing Restrictions: Don't become your own worst enemy. Try to remain as flexible as possible when showing the home. It might take a bit more effort, but it is well worth the reward when trying to sell a home quickly.

Holiday Toy Drive

IZABELLA’S

 ANNUAL HOLIDAY

TOY DRIVE

Saturday, December 18, 2010, 10am-1pm

Please participate in my annual toy drive by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to me at the Alameda Town Centre (next to Beverly’s) on December 18th. By bringing in a toy, you will be entered to win a $15 Trader Joe’s gift card. If you would like to make a donation and cannot come this Saturday, please contact me. This year, my toy drive will benefit the Oakland Children’s Hospital in an effort to make their holidays a little brighter.                                                         

                                                                         

                             Izabella Lipetski                                           Alameda Town Centre

                          ilipetski@gmail.com                                            2200 S Shore Ctr

                              (510)506-2072                                               Alameda, CA 94501