ALL ABOUT INSPECTIONS…

While various reports are given by sellers concerning the condition of their property, ultimately every smart buyer will see that it is cheaper to avoid problems rather than to fix them.

I urge every buyer to pay for a Home Inspection, even if you are buying a new house, and the home has a repair and construction warranty!

Always order a Bore (soil) test if purchasing a vacant lot.

When in doubt, order a survey to see exactly where your property lies, even if not required by the lender. Keep in mind, even surveyors make mistakes.

ESTIMATED TEST COSTS

GET ESTIMATES! THERE ARE NO SET FEES FOR THESE TESTS:

TERMITE $50     SURVEY $150     BORE TEST $175     APPRAISAL $250

HOME INSPECTION $150-$450

About home appraisals: they are usually ordered by the lender, but the buyer has the right to approve the appraiser before agreeing to use the appraiser. Although you pay the loan application fee that includes the appraisal, the appraiser works for the lender. You will get the results from the lender. The appraiser will not discuss results with you. Make sure you get a final copy of the appraisal.

Palm Coast basically has three seasons: Spring, Summer, & Fall.

Termites don’t die off during the winter in this climate.

Take this into consideration when purchasing your house. While concrete block homes can get termite infestations, frame homes should be carefully and thoroughly inspected before purchase.

Don’t be embarrassed or afraid to ask questions about anything you see or any concerns you have about a property. Always look for signs of water damage around a property.

LEAD PAINT DISCLOSURE
Are you planning to buy or  rent a home built before 1978? Federal law requires a landlord or seller disclose in writing the possible use of lead paint on the premises. Buyers have up to 10 days to check for lead paint. The seller is not required to remove the lead paint. Lead paint is a toxic substance that poses serious health risks.

MOLD DISCLOSURES

As of this writing, while a buyer can have a house inspected for mold, there are no state regulations governing mold inspectors or inspections.

RADON GAS 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that, when it has accumulated in a building in sufficient quantities, may present health risks to persons who are exposed to it over time. Additional information about Radon and Radon testing may be obtained from your county public health unit.