FAQ

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a professional opinion by way of visual examination of the condition of a home.  A home inspection gives the buyer valuable insight into the overall condition on their investment.

I am buying a new home, do I need an inspection?

Yes.  Even new homes have deficiencies that the builder may not see or neglect to repair.  Also see link below.

Am I required to have the home inspection?

More often than not, it is at the buyer’s discretion. Home inspections are optional. Because buying a home is the biggest investment most of us will ever make, home inspections are highly recommended.


How long does a home inspection take?

On average a home inspection will take 2 to 3 hours.  Some will take longer depending on the size or the age of the home being inspected.

How do I determine if my inspector is licensed?

To determine if your inspector is licensed go to the Texas Real Estate Commission website http://www.trec.state.tx.us/  then look for licensee search.

I am selling my home, should I have my home inspected?

It’s a good idea to have a pre-sale home inspection.  It lets you the seller know what types of concerns buyers may bring up.


What if I am buying a home through HUD Forclosure?

HUD does not guarantee the value or condition of your future home, and HUD does not perform home inspections.  It is best that you find a Home Inspector and have the home inspected before closing.  If you find problems with your new home after closing, HUD cannot give or lend you money for repairs.

What is Infrared Thermal Imaging?

Infrared is an energy similar to visible light, but with a longer wavelength. Infrared energy is invisible to the human eye, however, while visible light energy is emitted by objects only at a very high temperature, infrared energy is emitted by all objects at ordinary temperatures.

Since thermal imagers sense infrared energy which varies with the temperature of objects in a scene, the image generated provides a thermal signature of the scene.  In a home inspection, it simply means you are able to see things that the naked eye can not.

How do I prepare for a Home Inspection?

After confimation of a signed contract.  Make sure that all utilities in the home are on (water, gas, electricity).  Many times in vacant homes utilities are turned off, with the help of your realtor, you should be able to have them on in 2 - 3 days.  Make a list of questions or concerns you have about the home to discuss with the inspector.  During the walk through with the inspector is the time for you to get a real good look at the home from the eyes the inspector, this is a very important aspect of the inspection process.  Before hiring an inspector make sure you are afford this time when he or she is done inspecting.

Thank you for viewing the latest news from EyeBall:

Goal of the Newsletter:
This news letter was created to serve as a mechanism to build relationships and to allow us to keep you informed of innovations in the world of Home Inspections. EyeBall Real Estate Inspections is commited to helping you the homebuyer through the home buying process. Armed with the right information you can make a good decision and feel great about it. If we can be of service, please visit us at http://www.eyeballrei.com or call via the contact information provided.

So how do you choose a good inspector? Inquiring about a home inspector's qualifications and experience as well as establishing open communication is of most importance at all times. If you are not comfortable talking to your prospective inspector, it is a good idea to keep looking, as you need someone who is honest and patient enough to handle the job in addition to answering any questions you may have - no matter how relevant they may or may not seem.

When speaking with a prospective homebuyer, the first question I'm most asked is, "What do you charge for a home inspection?" The size and age of the home are very important factors in determining the cost of the inspection. The average inspection of a home depending on the size and age will take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. If your inspector is thorough, 5 to 6 hours will be required to complete the entire process which includes completing a written report with pictures.

Inspectors use several methods to determine the cost of the inspection. Some charge a flat rate, some by square feet and some by the hour. Most inspectors will charge extra for pools, guest quarters (separate structure), pier and beam foundations, septic systems, sprinklers etc., as these items will add to the amount of time to complete the inspection.

Putting the fee in context
A home inspection will help reassure you when considering your purchase. If you are buying a $300,000 home and the inspection fee is $550, you are paying .0018 of the cost of the home. As you can see, the cost of a home inspection is minimal. Even if the cost incurred were $1,000 - most are less than half of this amount - you're still at an advantage by taking care of your potential investment from the very start.

Once the inspection is complete, you will receive a detailed report of the inspectors findings. Feel free to ask any questions that enter your mind to ensure you understand the information being presented to you, as the report will more than likely either persuade or dissuade your purchasing the home. If the report returns few problems within the home, then the cost of your peace of mind was relatively inexpensive, If the report reveals major problems, then the $300 - $600 you have spent may save you thousands of dollars either shortly after your purchase or over time.

So call today to schedule your inspection. We've trained our eyes to see clearly for you.