Atlanta Home Inspection Preparation
What can sellers do to improve the outcome?
a. Prepare the interior of the home as though it is still on the market.
The buyer may accompany the inspector and should see the home at its showing best.
b. Make sure all areas are accessible including crawl space and outbuildings
c. Leave all utilities on including gas, water, electric
d. Move boxes to the center of garage and basement to expose interior walls
e. Provide a written history of your home's maintenance and upgrades
What is the Due Diligence option in the Georgia Purchase and Sale Contract?
The due diligence paragraph is provided to give purchasers time to investigate the property
they want to buy during a specific time period. The buyer is permitted to reject the property
during this period for any reason whatsoever. Buyers can conduct a variety of inspections
during this time.
What areas of the home are examined by inspectors?
Structural components, siding, electrical, wiring, installations, projected life analysis,
mold, radon, termite, system operations, pool components, deferred maintenance,
safety violations, roof, drainage, windows, doors, chimneys, porches, decks, crawl spaces,
foundations, trees.
Who supervises and conducts the inspection?
Inspections are conducted by home inspectors (generalists) and/or those who have
advanced skills in a specific category. These inspectors are usually accompanied by
the buyer and the buyer’s agent. Buyers should always accompany the inspector to
learn about the operational aspects of the home and its systems.
Who pays for the home inspection?
The purchaser
Who selects the home inspector(s)?
The purchaser will select the home inspection professionals that are a good fit for the
particular home and areas of concern. The buyer agent may supply a list of firms with
skills in specific areas of concern, or generalists who are known for quality service.
How do inspections impact the purchase and sale contract?
The Georgia contract permits the buyer to request defect resolution or to cancel the
contract when issues of concern cannot be remedied. Alternatively, the sales price may
be lowered to offset the cost of repairs or other financial remedies may be offered, such
as increasing the seller contribution to closing costs. Of course, the seller can opt to do
nothing and let the contract terminate if no agreement can be made.
What is the difference in an FHA appraisal vs a home inspection?
The FHA appraisal is a valuation of the home's value to provide security for a mortgage.
However, there are certain details of the home’s physical condition which must be met as
well in order to secure the financing and these are actually evaluated by the appraiser.
The normal home inspection is much more detailed and analytical.
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