Two of the most critical issues facing first-time home buyers are termite inspections and appraisals vs. home inspections.  

Most first-time home buyers simply are not aware of many important aspects of purchasing a home.  Or so much is being presented to them at one time that some of the smaller items get bypassed or forgotten.  Well, we here at Drive in Peace not only assist drivers but we pride ourselves on being helpful to the public.  We have experienced all that we highlight and educate people about.  

Termite Inspections

Why should you invest in a termite inspection even after the seller of the house states one has been done?
Termites cost Americans into the BILLIONS of dollars each year in damage property. And what's even worst there is no insurance of any type that takes on the risk of termite damage.  The best measure is to ensure that you DO NOT have a problem when you move into your home.  Annual inspections are definitely and strongly recommended. Have your own inspection done before you move into the house.  The inspection report that the seller provides on the house is only valid for 30 days after the closing date.  In most cases homeowners are not thinking about termites as soon as they move in, but they should.  The termite inspection the seller might provide may not be as detail and thorough as one you would have done as the buyer.

There are any number of reputable pest control companies offering free home inspections.  But Orkin is highly recommended because of the comprehensive package they offer.  Plus the free inspection was as thorough as any we examined.  In the end no matter who the company, please get a treatment report with an attached diagram highlighting the areas inspected and the damaged areas if any.  The seller of the house should have the diagram already in the closing documents from when they had the house inspected, for your viewing. Please DO NOT over look this small detail. Get a termite inspection ASAP.

Know the details of buying and shopping for a home especially an older home.

Appraisals and Home Inspections

An appraisal is different from a home inspection. Appraisals are for lenders; home inspections are for buyers. Your lender does an appraisal for three reasons:
* estimate the value of a house
* make sure that the house meets FHA minimum health and safety standards
* make sure that the house is marketable

Why You Need a Home Inspection?
Home inspections give you, the buyer, detailed information on potential problems - information you need to make a wise decision. 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 must be repaired or replaced
* estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure, and finishes
The home inspection does not evaluate the value of the house. That's what an appraisal does.

Getting a Home Inspection
The first step is to call a qualified home inspector, someone who is very experienced evaluating:
* home construction
* proper installation of construction materials
* maintenance

Spending Hundreds May Save Thousands
A home inspection and termite inspection are  good investments to help you make the biggest investment of your life. Before you sign the contract, make sure you know the physical condition of your home in order to make a wise decision.  Know the details of buying and shopping for a home especially an older home.


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