Buyers are typically looking for ways to save a dollar at every turn because when buying a home every dollar adds up. The expenses continue to mount up over the course of the process and buyers are trying to keep it as low as possible. I have been asked many times how important is a home inspection on a brand new house?. There are varying opinions out there, but below are 4 considerations of how to handle your new home inspection.
Types of Inspections
There are levels of a new home inspection to be considered. You can get a foundation inspection to ensure it was laid property. The next step would be the pre-drywall inspection to ensure the mechanics of the home were installed properly and the framing was done correctly. The final inspection would be a general inspection. In this, the inspector will look for the functions of the appliances, mechanics, nail pops, bowed walls, sticking doors or drawers, and so much more. In order to know how you feel about having an inspection or not, you need to know how you may benefit from it. It’s okay to ask your agent or inspector for details.
Hasn’t it Already Been Inspected?
The government district your house is in generally requires a city/township inspection by their department before issuing a certificate to occupy the property. These inspections are to ensure that the property is habitable, built to code, and protect the consumer. However, it is not an in-depth inspection like a third party inspector would do. They are looking at the basic functions, not at the whole house. If you want a thorough inspection, you will need to consider a third party.
Why Inspect If It Comes With A Warranty?
The answer to this really comes down to what are your priorities? If you are looking to save time and potential headache once you moved in, a third-party inspector may find things that can be fixed before you close. Unfortunately, sometimes after closing it may take the builder a little longer than you want to wait to get back out to fix the items that come up later. A trained eye may be able to catch these items early and you can have them addressed early. Many builders offer a one year home warranty. This is typically followed by they will only come out once in the 11 months to address all items at that time, unless there are urgent matters.
Inspection at the End of the First Year
While I think an inspection during the building process can be very beneficial, for buyers looking to save a few dollars at closing, here is another consideration. If you are ok with waiting for repairs until the 11th month, you can do your home inspection during that month and give the list to the builder at that time. You are still spending about the same amount of money, but not all at once. You may have to deal with the delay, but you will get a trained eye on the property after the house had been settling for the first 11 months. It really depends on how you like to handle your time, energy and money.
There is no right or wrong way to do what works for you in this case. What is important is that you are comfortable with the builder, your agent, inspector, and the purchasing process. Do not be afraid to ask your agent and inspector questions in regards to what works best. Their answer may vary depending on their experience with the various builders, neighborhoods, and even their understanding of what is important to each individual buyer. Trust the professionals, but ask questions to gain understanding.
