Home inspections are part of the real estate process.  A home inspection allows a buyer to get a deeper understanding of the condition of the home aside from what can be seen when walking through a house during a showing.  But, what if the home is new or only a few years old?  Do you still need a home inspection for a newer home?

The answer to this question is yes.  A home inspection is completed by a third party certified home inspector.  The buyers hire this inspector to find any issues with the property.  While a newer home is less likely to have major problems like a foundation concern or electrical wiring issue, it does not mean the possibility for such a problem doesn’t exist. I’ve been to inspections at new construction properties and the home inspector has discovered issues that the builder needed to fix.

Is a home inspection part of a real estate contract?

Yes, it is included in Virginia real estate contracts as a home inspection contingency.  The buyers and sellers can agree to the type of inspection being completed.  Usually, buyers and sellers agree to a home inspection where the buyers present a list of requested repairs after the inspection and the seller and buyer can negotiate over what the seller will repair.  It is important to note that the home inspection contingency does not obligate sellers to make any or all repairs. Sometimes home are sold as-is.  In this case, an inspection for informational purposes only may take place.  An inspection for informational purposes only means that the buyers do the inspection but acknowledge that the seller is not going to repair the home.

Why is a home inspection for a newer home important?

A home inspection for a newer home gives buyers a better understanding of the condition of a home.  Any issues that could be expensive to repair can be negotiated by the seller and buyer.  Once a buyer has closed on a home, any problem with the home is the problem of the buyer.

Home inspectors may find an issue that the sellers are not even aware exists.  Roof damage, a faulty outlet, or a broken window may not be things noticed just by walking through a home.  Home inspections bring this issues to light.

What if something is wrong with the home?

After a home inspection, the inspector will share a report with the buyer of the inspection.  The buyer can then identify items that the buyer would like the seller to repair (assuming the property is not being sold as-is).  Working with the REALTORS®, the buyers and sellers can negotiate the repairs.  If an agreement cannot be met or the home’s condition is not satisfactory to the buyers, the buyers do have the option to exit the contract within the timeframe set forth in the contract.

While doing a home inspection for a newer home may seem a little a little redundant to some buyers, having the assurance that the home is in as great condition as it appears is valuable information.

If you are ready to get started on your home journey than I am here to help! From helping you understand the process, to negotiations, and completing a home inspection on a newer home, I will be with you! Contact me today to get started!