Inspections

An inspection is recommended while investing in a home because there are many details you might not be aware of that are hidden to the naked eye. An inspector will go through the home with you and give you many tips on how to correct areas of concern and give you general maintenance tips for the home. The inspection gives you complete data in a report for your review. If anything is found during the inspection causing concern, you can either cancel the purchase agreement or change the purchase agreement to address the concern. The things covered in the inspection are:

1. Foundation and Structure - This includes cement, sump and drain tile, walls, crawl spaces.
2. Roofs - This includes chimneys, shingles, flashing, gutters, attic (leaks).
3. Heating and Cooling - This includes the furnace, furnace maintenance, age of furnace, air conditioner (if warm enough), air conditioner maintenance.
4. Plumbing - This includes all visible pipes, water pressure, toilets, sinks.
5. Electrical - This includes the GFCI outlets, the breaker box, fuses, outlets, switches
6. Insulation - This includes all visible insulation. (attic) Check for depth and quality.
7. Windows and Doors - This includes all visible leaking and quality concerns with windows and doors.
8. Siding - This includes exterior trim and soffit condition.
9. Decks - (including Porches) This includes footings, wood rot, connection to the home.
10. Driveways & Sidewalks - This includes the condition of the driveway and sidewalk focusing on cracks and dips.
11. Landscaping - This includes drain issues for the land and pooling water next to the foundation.

The main goal of the inspection is to look at everything step by step to make sure everything is covered and you can be sure that the home is a wise investment. It is best to use an ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) certified home inspector. All MN Real Estate Network, Inc. agents recommend highly trained qualified home inspectors to protect our clients.