Often times seller do not disclose some important information on the house they are selling, and a lot of things can happen between the time the house is listed and the time the house is bought. It all depends on you the seller to conduct a thorough inspection or seek professional help to do it for you. Nevertheless, make sure you do this to avoid any unforeseen problems and take this opportunity to heighten your negotiating power over the terms and costs of the property you are buying.

House inspection is beneficial not only for the buyer. Most often, lenders asks for a certificate coming from a qualified inspector declaring that your possible property is free from pest and pest damage (such as termites), as well as other possible issues on the structure of the house.

Ensure that your offer includes a clause that will allow you to conduct an inspection and this will give you authority to terminate the contract in cases where you find the home is not good enough for you to purchase. The clause should specify the terms where the buyer and seller are both obligated. It is also a must that you have the house inspected within the few days right after signing the purchase contract.

It is the buyer’s sole responsibility to pay for these inspections so that the inspector works for them and not for the seller. Take note also that you must include in your sale agreement the right to cancel if you are not pleased on the result of the inspection. In addition, you can also make use of the information gathered upon inspection to renegotiate for a decrease in the sale price of the property or at least require the seller to make necessary repairs.

Be there on the day of the inspection and ask as many questions as possible. Keep in mind that this will be your future home and you need to know all the details of the house you are buying. A lot of inspectors will point out the areas of concern and the aspects that are in good shape. This data will help you see the extent of the problem that can arise upon purchase of the house. Some inspectors also point out some features and often times teach you on how to use them to be able to maintain and keep the house in good condition.

Bear in mind that almost all homes for sale will always show problems. Likewise, newly constructed homes can also have problems as shown on the report. The inspector must be able to identify major problems that are costly for you if you want them fixed. Minor problems must be expected and they can be repaired after closing the deal. Sellers may adjust the selling price or agreement terms if some major issues are found. If it will be a major repair and it is costly, you will have a better way of coming up with a decision to purchase knowing the problems that you will encounter upon purchasing the house.