Navigating the Homebuying Journey: The Importance of Home Inspections

Hello, future homeowners! I'm Allison Hansen, a Realtor with RE/MAX Alliance with over 20 years of experience proudly serving the Metro East area of Southern Illinois. Today, I'm here to share valuable insights into a crucial aspect of the homebuying process – home inspections. In my pursuit of providing you with essential information, I had the opportunity to sit down with Brett Ahring, a trusted local inspector from Ahring Inspections, for a candid conversation about the ins and outs of home inspections. By the way, Brett recently conducted a home inspection for me today in Glen Carbon, IL, adding a real-world perspective to our discussion.

Why Inspections Matter: Insights from Brett Ahring

Brett, with his extensive 20 years as a licensed inspector, shed light on the significance of home inspections. In our conversation, we explored why inspections are vital, tips for a successful inspection, and how they've evolved over the years. Brett is one of several inspectors I collaborate with, ensuring my clients receive top-notch expertise.

The Four Key Inspections: A Brief Overview

1. Whole House Inspection (Cost: $350-550; varies depending on age and size of home): This comprehensive examination covers all aspects of a property and is a staple for informed decision-making.
2. Radon Inspection (Cost: $150): Unveiling potential gas threats, this inspection ensures superior air quality within the home.
3. Termite Inspection (Cost: $50): Acting as a protective shield, this examination safeguards against the formidable invaders known as termites and carpenter bees that are common in the Midwest.
4. Sewer Inspection (Cost: $170): Delving into the hidden world beneath the ground, this inspection is crucial, especially for older homes where unforeseen repairs can become substantial.

Tips for a Successful Inspection: Insights from the Pros

During our conversation, Brett emphasized the importance of being present during inspections. This hands-on approach allows buyers to gain firsthand insights into the property's condition and facilitates direct communication with the inspector. It's a valuable opportunity to ask questions and better understand the nuances of your potential home.

Adapting to Changing Landscapes: A Strategic Approach

In today's dynamic real estate landscape, some buyers are opting for inspections solely for informational purposes or restricting repair requests to a specified dollar amount, for instance, $1000. This strategic approach, especially in multiple offer situations, can enhance the competitiveness of your offer. As your Realtor, I'm here to guide you in crafting an offer that strikes the perfect balance – competitive and aligned with your comfort level.

Crafting Your Competitive and Informed Offer

In conclusion, home inspections are not just a box to check; they are a pivotal step in ensuring your future home is a sound investment. Staying well-informed equips you to make decisions with confidence.  As your dedicated Realtor, I'm committed to guiding you through this journey, ensuring your offer is not only competitive but reflective of your unique preferences and comfort level. Happy house hunting! 🏡✨