Frank, I hope you're taking all this in.
Just to let you know, all Realtors are bound by a Code of Ethics. No need to tell you where that got us now. Unfortunately, some agents do get too friendly with home inspectors and will work closely with them and will selectively address problems. In the end, most real estate agents have to bring the bread home to survive because most are not salaried employees. We all work on commission so this pay stucture will skew the professionalizm of some agents. But not all of them. As you can see, there are some good agents providing good information to your question. There are many good agents out there, but all are there to make a buck if this is their only means of support. So I do agree with Marc also with regards to the selection process of a home inspection.
However, it's a catch 22 because if you don't know anyone in the business, you're first inclination might be to seek out a Realtor who can help recommend one. Now I'm not a top producer like other agents but I strongly follow the code of ethics and have some experience in what to look for also in a home and because I have multiple streams of income, I don't solely depend on selling real estate to survive. However, you may feel better seeking a top producer in the town you're interested in buying and seek out brand name offices as well. (Wow, a real estate agent who actually recommends you working with another agent, how about that).
If there are major problems with a home, any home inspector should point them out. Here are some things you may want to look for also and request:
Of course, every home should have a termite inspection.
Check the electric supply coming into the home and any loose electrical wiring. Check for overloads.
Beware of wall paneling in an older homes, God knows what's behind them.
Looking for sagging floors or ceiling.
Check for oil tanks, well water, septic if the home is not connected to public service utilities.
Check under and in close proximity to sinks and toilets for possible rot based on past issues with a home.
Find out the age of hot water heaters and furnaces (average life time is 10 to 15 years).
Find out how sturdy the home's foundation is (again check for termites).
Check for sump pumps and make sure they work in the basement.
There is so much more to check but these come to mind as red flags when home inspections are done.
Again good luck with everything.
And by the way, Robert Hahn's company is offering a discount as someone else mentioned, If you would like the coupon, let me know. I can forward without a problem. Or you may want to contact him directly from the link I sent in my previous post. But in the grand scheme of things, a savings of $35 dollars is a tear drop in the bucket compared with the actual expense of a home that has not been properly inspected if purchased.
Carmelo Torres
A Home For Sale Realty
A Premier Statewide Real Estate Company
Website:
http://www.ahfsr.com
Contact info:
http://contact.ahfsr.com - Thu Feb 19 2009, 06:42