For Your Protection: Get a Home Inspection
By U.S Department of Housing |
Thu, 1 Jun 2006
Why a Buyer Needs a Home Inspection
A home inspection gives the buyer more detailed information about the overall condition of the home prior to purchase. In a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home to:
- Evaluate the physical condition: structure, construction, and mechanical systems;
- Identify items that need to be repaired or replaced; and
- Estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure, and finishes
Appraisals are Different from Home Inspections
An appraisal is different from a home inspection. Appraisals are for lenders; home inspections are for buyers. An appraisal is required to:
- Estimate the market value of a house;
- Make sure that the house meets FHA minimum property standards/requirements; and
- Make sure that the property is marketable.
FHA Does Not Guarantee the Value or Condition of your Potential New Home
If you find problems with your new home after closing, FHA can not give or lend you money for repairs, and FHA can not buy the home back from you. That is why it is so important for you, the buyer, to get an independent home inspection. Ask a qualified home inspector to inspect your potential new home and give you the information you need to make a wise decision.
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