Important questions to ask your home inspector.

When purchasing a home, home inspections often put the buyer's mind at ease and may allow for renegotiation. An inspection also gives buyers an opportunity to opt out of the sale if major problems are discovered. Here are some important questions that buyers should ask their home inspector.

• Are you a member in good standing of a professional inspectors organization, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI)? (Some states require a license).Inspectors (NIBI)? (Some states require a license).
• What is your specialty? If the inspector only has training in one area and has no other expertise, the inspection may not be comprehensive. 
• Do you have references? 
• How long have you been in business and how many inspections have you performed? 
• What advanced technology do you use? (i.e.-infrared camera, ultrasound machine)What exactly does the inspection cover? (i.e.-plumbing, heat, electric, structure, alarms, sewer, foundation)
• Can we accompany you on the inspection?
• Do you carry all necessary insurance, including professional liability, general liability, and errors and omissions insurance?
• Does the report include estimates of repair costs
• Do you offer a written guarantee on the inspection?What type of report will I receive, and when will I receive it?

If there is a specific area of concern, hiring a professional who specializes in that area may beneficial. Also, be aware that there may be a conflict of interest if the home inspector also offers to perform repairs.

Avoid these common mistakes when buying a home

Home buying can be a frustrating experience, but choosing a competent real estate agent to guide you through the 

process will likely save you time and money. Here are some tips to avoid costly mistakes.

• Get pre-approved BEFORE you start your home search. Pre-approval will give you a realistic price point when viewing potential homes and puts you in a better position to make a serious offer.
• Research the neighborhood. Learn about crime statistics, schools and amenities within your potential town.
• Look beyond the décor. Focus on the structure itself, square footage and layout. Look beyond the taste of the current homeowner, and remember you are buying the actual house.
• Never skip the inspection. Your home is likely the biggest investment you will ever make, a home inspection is necessary to ensure it is a sound structure or at the very least, make you aware of any defects.
• Give yourself an out. Make sure there are contingencies (such as financing or inspection) in the contract so you can back out of the deal and recoup your deposit.
• Don’t buy the most expensive house on the block. The lower home values around your property will negatively affect your property's value.
• Keep resale value in mind. It may be difficult to envision selling a home that you have yet to live in, but remember to consider long-term property value, location and overall mass appeal, when viewing a potential home.

And remember to call our offices today so that one of our knowledgeable sales professionals can help guide you through your home buying experience.

Common Contract Contingencies

When buying or selling a home, contingency is an important part of the process. It is a formal stipulation that protects the interests of both buyers and sellers. Contingencies enumerate particular conditions that must be met for the sale to be finalized, and if they are not fulfilled, the buyer or seller may back out 
of the contract without penalty.

Some common contingencies are:

1. Financing - The financing contingency refers to the buyer’s ability to procure financing for the property. This could include the terms of the loan, including the interest rate, length and type of loan.
2. Appraisal - The appraisal clause is necessary so the proposed property value can be substantiated for the lender.
3. Inspection - A home inspection could reveal any issues or defects and the buyer can ask for repairs, or renegotiate the sale price. You also have the opportunity to review paperwork affecting the title such as a Preliminary Title Report which may outline liens or other title issues that must be addressed before escrow closes.
4. Buying or Selling of Property - Often, the sale may be contingent on the seller’s purchase of a new property or the buyer’s ability to sell his existing home.

These are just some of the details that experienced and well-trained agents know how to address and why we recommend working with a REALTOR 
for the sale or purchase of your home.

Our team is here to help make all your transitions easier. To talk to any of our CENTURY 21 Adams & Barnes REALTORS please call us at 626-358-1858 or 626-963- 7621. Are you a fan? Join us on Facebook or follow our Tweets today.