A home inspection is one of the first investments a buyer makes in a property.  The purpose of a home inspection is to check out the home for potential problems before the buyer purchases the home.  Many real estate purchase offers contain a home inspection contingency clause.

A typical home inspection can last up to three hours.  The home inspector makes a thorough examination of the accessible areas and systems of the property.  The fee for a home inspection in the area covers a standard list of items.  If additional tests are requested or required, an extra charge may apply.  A radon test is an example of an additional test.  For a detailed list of home tests contact , of at [Profile cell_phone].

A home inspector will take you through the home step-by-step, pointing out potential and necessary repairs.  This information can be invaluable when negotiating the purchase price of the home.  The inspection also gives the buyer a fantastic opportunity to become familiar with the details of the systems of the home.

The standard systems of the home to be inspected include the structure, electric, heating/air conditioning, and plumbing systems.

The framing and foundation of the home is considered the structure.  The heating and air conditioning system will be tested during the inspection.  The vent systems will also be examined.

The plumbing system will be tested including all fixtures and faucets.  Drains and plumbing vent systems will be inspected.  If the home has a sump pump, it too will be tested.

In addition to the standard systems, the home inspector will inspect all accessible areas of the home including the exterior, interior and basement of the home. 

The exterior inspection includes the roof, foundation, doors, decks, balconies, porches, and any walkways or driveways leading toward the entrance of the home.

The interior inspection includes walls, ceilings, floors, stairways and railings, basement, doors and windows.  Additionally, the home inspector will test major kitchen appliances such as the oven, stovetop, and microwave oven.

After the inspection you will receive a comprehensive report and supplemental material.  This educational material is often in the form of a book or binder.  The report will list any issues uncovered during the inspection.

recommends hiring a professional home inspector.  Contact at or for a list of home inspection companies in .  This article is a brief overview of the benefits of a home inspection. For more information about what to expect during a home inspection please feel free to contact me.

Free information about buying, selling or investing in Columbia South Carolina real estate is available.  Visit the most complete website online dedicated to everything real estate at .  Complete information about the real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and much more is just a click away.  Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions at or email me at .