When you submit a written offer (please avoid verbal agreements at all costs) the contract will specify what the time periods are for your “right to investigate” the property and it’s components.  From time to time I have had clients that want to know why they should do inspections.  It’s very simple.  This is your opportunity to have licensed and qualified professionals inspect the property for defects before you own it. These inspections are also considered “disclosures”. The total inspection fees can vary in a range from $650 to $850 depending on the size of the structure and the difficulty in completing the inspection.  Typically we recommend the following inspections (for improved properties) to name a few;

Physical/Home Inspection Roof Inspection    
HVAC Inspection
Structural Pest Control Inspection    
Woodstove/Fireplace Inspection  
Property Corner Pin Check
Roof Inspection    
Septic System Inspection

 Keep in mind that if a particular inspection notes an area of concern, you have the right (and we strongly urge you) to further investigate the item of concern.  If an inspector notes an area of concern that is outside the scope of his/her expertise, we will strongly urge you to enlist a specialist in that field to further investigate the item. Remember your grandmother saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? The inspection period is the time to make sure you know exactly what you are buying. If there is a large or costly defect in the property, it’s better to find it while someone else owns it!

Another item to mention under “inspections” is a “Final” on the structure. Calaveras County has not always been the best record keepers.  The County has recently decided to start looking at buildings that were built (many of them constructed in the 60’s and 70’s) and may never have received a Final Inspection and Occupancy Permit from the Calaveras County Building Department.  The County (with budget shortfalls like many local governments) sees this as a funding opportunity. While we have been advised by legal council from our state association not to search out the County Records, we strongly advise you to do so.  We will provide you with the Assessor’s Parcel Number and the phone number to call.

Important!  As the inspections are completed you will receive copies of the reports.  It is critical that you review the inspection results immediately!  Anything in the report(s) that you do not understand, contact your agent immediately!  Anything in the inspection report(s) you do not like, or are uncomfortable with, contact your agent immediately!  You may give up some of your rights in the Purchase Agreement if you do not speak up in a timely manner!  Remember, you have the right to do “further investigations”.  It is our job to educate and protect you in this transaction!  Please keep this in mind when we make suggestions, or give you advice.