Introduction:
Purchasing a home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make. While it’s exciting to find your dream house in the Phoenix area, it’s critical that you thoroughly inspect the property before signing on the dotted line. A professional home inspection Phoenix can save you from making a very costly mistake by identifying issues that may not be noticeable to the untrained eye. Here’s why every home buyer in Phoenix needs a professional home inspection.
1: Extreme Arizona Temperatures Can Cause Unseen Damage
Phoenix experiences extreme temperatures, with averages over 100°F in the summer and nights below freezing in the winter. These temperature extremes put a lot of stress on a home over time and can cause damage that is not visible to buyers. For example, roof materials can degrade, pipes can burst, and foundations can shift gradually. A professional inspector has the experience to look for signs of this type of damage during all seasons. Making an offer contingent on a professional inspection can protect you from hidden repair costs.
2: Termites and Other Pests Are Prevalent in Arizona
Termites are a major problem in Arizona, especially in older homes. The signs of termite damage may not be obvious to the average home buyer. A professional inspector will check all the wood structural components in the home for evidence of termite infestation. They can detect if there are areas of damage behind walls or under flooring that you can’t see. In addition to termites, scorpions, black widow spiders, and even rodents can easily infest homes in Arizona. An inspector can point out any signs of pest problems.
3: Older Homes May Not Meet Current Safety Standards
Many Phoenix homes are older construction and may not meet current safety standards. For example, outdated electrical systems and plumbing can be major safety hazards. Aluminum wiring used in some older homes is prone to fire. Galvanized steel pipes have a lifespan of only about 50 years before they start leaking. A home inspector will thoroughly check all systems and let you know what needs to be updated for safety. They also look for lead paint, asbestos, mold, radon gas, and other environmental hazards common in older homes.
4: You Need an Expert Opinion on Major Systems
Furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, electrical systems, and roofs are all very expensive to repair or replace. An inspector has the knowledge to determine how much life these major systems have left. If any will need replacement soon, you can use that information to negotiate the home price. No one wants to move into their new home only to be hit with a $10,000 repair bill. A professional inspection gives you peace of mind about the condition of major home systems.
5: An Inspection Identifies Small Issues Before They Become Big Ones
During a general inspection, minor issues are often identified. These are inexpensive repairs that can become much bigger problems down the road. For example, a flashing that needs resealing, a patch of missing grout, a small roof leak, or a faulty outlet – a home inspector will find all these and more. Making these minor repairs now prevents expensive damage in the future. You can also get a repair credit from the sellers to take care of these fixes.
6: Inspectors Know What to Look for in Phoenix Homes
From adobe and Spanish style architecture to modern stucco box designs, Phoenix homes have unique features an inspector will check. They’ll examine the flat roof construction common here and look for sun damage on exterior surfaces. Professional inspectors are very familiar with the styles and systems in Phoenix homes. They know all the common defects specific to the area after inspecting hundreds or even thousands of local homes. Their specialized experience is invaluable.
7: You Can Get an Unbiased Professional Opinion
Home inspections are completely unbiased. The inspector does not care if you buy the home or not. Their job is to simply evaluate the current condition and report all the findings to you, the buyer. The sellers or real estate agents only have to disclose known defects, so you need an impartial inspector protecting your interests. Relying solely on claims from the seller or agent may end up costing you big time down the road.
8: The Cost is Very Low for the Value
A professional home inspection typically costs $300-$500 based on the size of the house. This is a very low price considering it can save you from making a 6 or 7-figure mistake. The relative cost is minimal for the value gained from the knowledge provided in the inspection report. Any issues raised in the report can also be used to negotiate with the seller for repairs or lower the purchase price.
9: Mortgage Lenders Often Require an Inspection
Most mortgage lenders will not approve a loan without a professional inspection first. They want to be sure their investment (which is your loan) in the property is sound. If major issues are found, they may decline the loan altogether until repairs can be made. Having an inspection upfront prevents major delays or surprises during the mortgage approval process.
10: Inspections Provide Peace of Mind
Ultimately, a professional home inspection gives you peace of mind about the property you want to purchase. It allows you to make an informed decision about this major investment. The inspection report answers many questions about the current condition of the home. If repairs are needed, you can address them upfront before move-in day. You can also adjust your offer price accordingly. Having a complete understanding of the property condition allows buyers to make the right decision.
Conclusion:
Purchasing a home in Phoenix is a big investment – protect that investment with a professional home inspection. For a small fee, you gain invaluable information and peace of mind about the property’s condition. The inspection can save you from unknowingly buying a house with major hidden issues. Don’t skip this essential step in the home-buying process.
