Inspection
FAQ's
What is a home inspection?
- Our
home inspection consists of a visual examination and written
report of a property's structural and mechanical systems and
components from the foundation to the roof,
heating and cooling equipment, electrical,
plumbing, built-in appliances, pools and more. We are
not appraisers and do not determine market value nor are we a
municipal inspection company that verifies code compliance. Even
the most seasoned real estate agent or informed home owner
cannot match the qualifications of our professional home
inspectors that have conducted thousands of home inspections.
Much like a physical check up, if problems or symptoms exist, an
inspector may suggest further evaluation.
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Why do I need a professional home inspection?
- Peace of mind.
Buying a home is probably the largest single investment you will
ever make. It can also be very stressful. Being familiar with a
property's condition and need for major repairs before you buy
is necessary so as to minimize any surprises or difficulties
afterwards.
Our home inspection will also note the positive aspects of the
home, as well as any necessary maintenance to keep it in good
shape. After reviewing the report, you will be able to make a
much more educated decision and have a clearer understanding of
the property you are purchasing.
If you
already own a home, an inspection may be useful in identifying
current problems or detecting potential troubles before they get
out of hand. This may help avoid costly repair bills. If you
have a home you are going to sell, you may want an inspection
before you list it on the market. This will give you valuable
insight to what a buyer's inspector may find while affording you
the opportunity to make repairs that will put your home in
better selling condition.
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When do I call a home inspector?
-
Generally, the home inspector is called right after a contract
or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign,
make sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract
making your commitment dependant upon the findings of a
professional home inspection. Both buyer and seller should
specify terms to which they are obligated.
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Do I have to be present at the inspection?
- Communication
with the inspector is important in order to fully understand the
inspection report and its findings. Although it is not
necessary, we encourage you to be present at the inspection,
typically towards the end (2-4 hrs.). This will allow the
inspector time to profile the home. At that time you can ask
questions as you learn the condition of the home, its systems,
how they work and routine maintenance. You may also find the
final report easier to read and understand having reviewed the
property from the inspector's point of view.
NOTE:
We are an
associate member of the Houston Association of Realtors and
maintain a SUPRA key (lockbox access) for scheduling
convenience. Please inform your realtor that their presence is
not required but of course they are welcome. Some realtors will
really appreciate this!
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Why should I use America's Home Professionals?
- The reason is
simple. Knowledge and expertise gained from
education, training and years of experience.
While we may not be the cheapest inspectors we inspect to a
higher standard and maintain several professional affiliations
and all inspections will be conducted by a professional home
inspector (licensed by The Texas Real Estate Commission) from an
impartial, objective point of view with quality and
integrity.
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What should I do if the house fails inspection?
- We do not pass
or fail homes. It is our intention to help buyers make informed
decisions and it is important to know that no house is perfect.
If an inspection report reveals problems, it does not
necessarily mean you should not buy the house, only that you
will know ahead of time what to expect. This information will be
very important to you if you wish to avoid costly major repairs.
If major problems are detected, it may cause the seller to
adjust the selling price or contract conditions. If a home is
found to be in good shape, you can complete the purchase with
your eyes wide open as to the condition of the property, its
systems, components and equipment. The written report and
free maintenance guide will also have taught you many things
about your new home and you will want to keep them for future
reference.
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Pest and Lawn Control
FAQ's
Do you perform WDI inspections?
- Yes. Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) inspections and reports
are required by most lenders and are performed by our certified
applicators and technicians (licensed by the Texas Department of
Agriculture). We offer free WDI reports with our home
inspections. Wood destroying insects include: termites
(subterranean and drywood), carpenter ants and bees as well as
wood boring beetles.
Do you treat for termites and other WDI's?
- Yes. We perform termite treatments as well as treating for
other wood destroying insects. Our subterranean termite
treatments come with a lifetime transferable warranty*. Even if
you do not have termites we highly recommend that you consider a
preventative treatment to help protect against future
infestation.
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Do you perform general pest control?
- Yes. We have a variety of methods for getting rid of
unwanted pests, depending on your needs and concerns.
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What is the R.I.D. system?
- The Retrofit Irrigation Distribution
System is a device that fits inline with an in ground sprinkler
system to distribute natural and safe pest
control products and organic fertilizer to you yard and
landscape. Learn more at
www.RidSystem.com.
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Loan
FAQ's
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