Introduction to Home Inspections

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in your life. Before finalizing any real estate transaction, it is highly recommended to have a professional home inspection performed on the property. A thorough home inspection is crucial for evaluating the overall condition of the home and identifying any repairs or maintenance issues before you buy.

Hiring a qualified, experienced home inspector is key to getting an accurate assessment. They will evaluate all aspects of the home from roof to foundation, providing you with peace of mind or alerting you to any red flags. Having an inspection is so vital that many lenders actually require them as part of the home buying process.

Benefits of Hiring a Kalamazoo Home Inspector

When you are shopping for homes in the Kalamazoo area, be sure to utilize a local home inspector. There are many benefits to hiring a knowledgeable inspector who is familiar with homes in the area:

Identify Specific Regional Issues

A local Kalamazoo home inspector will be experienced with homes in the area and know exactly what to look for. They can spot subtle signs of common regional problems, like risks for termite damage, flooding, roof issues due to lake effect snow, radon exposure, and more. Their familiarity with local building codes is also a major asset.

Provide Better Regional Recommendations

In addition to detecting regional home defects, a local inspector can also make more informed recommendations for repairs and next steps. They will know which contractors do quality work for issues they find and typical price ranges based on the market.

Know the Permitting Process

Navigating permits and regulations for repairs can be confusing, but a Kalamazoo home inspector will understand the local permitting processes and requirements. They can guide you properly on next steps when you need to file permits for major repairs.

Improved Accuracy

With extensive experience inspecting Kalamazoo area homes, a local home inspector will know the most common problem areas and pain points to focus on. This helps them better scrutinize these key areas during the inspection for improved detection. Their analysis will be more accurate assessing local homes.

Faster Scheduling

By using a home inspector based in Kalamazoo, you can often get an inspection scheduled more quickly versus bringing in an out-of-town inspector. The proximity improves availability and scheduling flexibility during what is a hectic home buying period.

What Do Home Inspectors Check?

When you hire a professional Kalamazoo home inspector, what exactly will they inspect? A standard home inspection includes examination of all physical aspects of the interior, exterior and major systems of the home including:

Interior Spaces

• Walls, ceilings, floors for cracks, stains or damage

• Doors and windows for function and defects

• Cabinets and countertops

• Sink, toilets and plumbing fixtures

• Electrical outlets, wiring and panel

• Built-in appliances

• Fireplaces, chimneys, and flues

• Insulation, ventilation and air flow

• Evidence of leaks, moisture or pests

Exterior Spaces

• Roof, flashing, gutters, drainage

• Siding, bricks, trim for cracks or rot

• Windows, doors, screens for damage

• Attached decks, porches, railings

• Foundation and grading for structural issues

• Driveways and walkways condition

Systems

• Heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment

• Plumbing and gas supply systems

• Electrical system, wiring and panel

• Water heater, septic tank, well pump

• Phone, cable, and security wiring

• Smoke detectors, ventilation, appliances

• Garage doors, automatic openers

What is NOT Included?

While home inspections are very thorough, there are several things typically excluded from a standard inspection:

• Evaluating furnished items

• Testing for mold, lead paint or asbestos

• Checking for pet/pest infestations beyond visible signs

• Assessing home's security or intercom systems

• Inspecting buried oil tanks

• Testing for pool or spa leaks

• Appraising value of the home

If any of these supplemental inspections are needed, an inspector can recommend appropriate professionals to contact.

When Should a Home Inspection Occur?

For home buyers, it is highly recommended to have the property inspected BEFORE closing on the sale. The ideal time is after signing the purchase offer, during your due diligence period. This allows time to get quotes on repairs and negotiate with the seller if needed.

Inspections are also recommended for homeowners proactively monitoring their property's condition every few years or planning major renovations. Annual inspections help detect developing issues early before they become costly repairs.

How to Choose the Right Home Inspector

Choosing the right home inspector is just as important as having the inspection itself. Here are tips for selecting a qualified, trustworthy Kalamazoo home inspector:

Research Inspector Candidates

• Search online reviews and ask realtors or neighbors for recommendations

• Verify proper licensing and certifications

• Look for membership in industry associations

• Check for complaints with Better Business Bureau

Interview Multiple Inspectors

• Get bids from 3-5 recommended inspectors

• Ask about their experience, training, certifications

• Inquire about inspection process and report format

• Discuss pricing and what is included

Look for Experience

• Choose an inspector with 5+ years of experience in home inspections

• Confirm they have inspected many homes in Kalamazoo area

• Ask about their experience with common regional issues

Verify Unbiased Status

• Make sure the inspector is completely independent without affiliation to real estate agents or mortgage lenders

• Avoid any perceived conflicts of interest

Request Sample Reports

• Ask to see samples of previous inspection reports

• Reports should be clearly formatted and comprehensive but not overly technical

Read Reviews

• Check sites like Google, Yelp, Angie’s List for customer reviews

• Look for inspectors with consistently positive feedback

Consider Certifications

• Look for credentials like "Certified Master Inspector" or affiliations with industry groups like ASHI or NAFA

• Voluntary certifications indicate commitment to continuing education

Ask candidates to explain their inspection process and reporting. Make sure you understand what is covered and the level of detail provided. also, inquire about any warranties or guarantees they offer on their inspection service.

Taking the time to carefully select the right home inspector will give you a more thorough, higher quality inspection report.

Top Kalamazoo Home Inspection Services

There are a number of licensed home inspection companies and independent home inspectors available to serve the Kalamazoo area. Here are some of top-rated options to consider:

1. Safeguard Inspections

With over 25 years of experience, Safeguard Inspections has six licensed home inspectors on staff. They are known for being extremely thorough and using cutting edge diagnostic tools during inspections. Their reports are very detailed with supporting photos and videos. They also offer sewer scope inspections, commercial inspections, and more.

2. Kalamazoo House Whisperer

This home inspection company has gained a strong reputation for customer service and transparent communication. Their inspectors take time to explain issues to clients and provide helpful repair tips. They are regularly praised for being informative but not pushy. Their inspection reports are completed on-site and include thorough explanations.

3. 20/20 Property Inspections

Focusing solely on property inspections, this family-owned company is praised for fair pricing and taking the time needed for thorough inspections. Their inspectors have 25+ years combined experience. They are great at pointing out issues that may not be visible to untrained eyes. Their reports even include a glossary of terms for better understanding.

4. Above Board Home Inspections

This insured company is known for experienced, licensed inspectors and high-quality customer service. They offer very flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends. Their reports are organized and detailed with supporting photos. They take time to explain findings and outline next steps. Rave reviews online.

5. H&S Property Inspections

With advanced certifications, this company brings an extra level of expertise to inspections. Their comprehensive reports and ratings of system conditions make it easy to compare properties. Use of infrared cameras and moisture detectors during inspections is a key advantage. Provides easy online scheduling and report access.

6. Precision Home Inspection

This popular local home inspection company is family owned with an excellent reputation. Their licensed inspectors are highly experienced with Midwest homes. They are praised for taking time to explain issues and answer all questions. Photos are embedded directly in their reports. Good for buyers on a budget.

7. Kalamazoo House Inspector

Known for above-and-beyond customer service, this licensed home inspection company provides very detailed reports at competitive rates. They offer flexible scheduling with quick turn around on reports. Their inspectors are great at pointing out small issues before they become big problems. Helpful repair recommendations provided.

8. HomeSafety Inspections

This established company focuses on very thorough yet cost-effective home inspections. Their easy-to-understand reports highlight priorities and include infrared imaging results. They also provide commercial real estate inspections, mold inspections and more. Known for responsive customer service and transparency.

9. SnagAHome

Husband and wife duo make up this trusted team that serves Kalamazoo home buyers and sellers. They are praised for taking time to explain findings and reports in an easy to understand manner. Very responsive and great prices. The company is family owned with a personable approach.

10. Midwest Property Analytics

Using cutting edge diagnostic technology, this company provides extremely detailed inspection reports. Their Bridge XR reports feature animated 3D models pinpointing issues needing repair. Their inspectors have engineering backgrounds and take a technical approach. Also offer infrared, asbestos, and water quality testing.

Questions to Ask During Your Inspection

When meeting with your chosen home inspector, come prepared with questions to get the most out of the inspection process. Important questions to ask include:

• What are the home's potential weak spots you'll focus on?

• What will your inspection report actually include?

• How long will the inspection take?

• What type of issues might come up requiring follow-up assessments?

• How can any major issues found be fixed and at what general cost?

• Do you notice any signs this home may have had fire/flood damage repaired?

• Does this home's age or features suggest any potential hazards like lead pipes or asbestos?

• Are the home's systems in generally good shape based on age and appearance?

Don't be shy about asking anything on your mind concerning the home's condition. Your inspector is there to answer all questions and explain what they are inspecting. This will lead to a better understanding of your home's issues and how to address them.

What to Do After Your Inspection

Once you receive the home inspection report, here are important steps:

Review in Detail

Read through the inspection report closely, making note of any red flags or major issues found. Research items you are unfamiliar with to fully understand the defects noted. Verify any aspects of the report you have questions about.

Get Repair Quotes

Start contacting appropriate contractors to get price estimates on repairs recommended in the report. This will allow you to see the potential costs involved if asking sellers to cover fixes.

Discuss Findings with Agent

Review the inspection findings with your real estate agent to decide which issues are highest priority and which can be deferred. Get their insight on concerns and how to negotiate repairs with the seller.

Request Repairs from Seller

Based on the report, decide which inspection issues are critical enough to request the seller address through repairs or credits. Make sure to get requests submitted during the defined negotiation period.

Confirm Repairs Completed

For any seller-agreed repairs, verify the work was properly completed by the contractor prior to closing. Some defects may warrant having a re-inspection done on that area after the repair.

Budget for Future Repairs

Factor in any recommended repairs declined by the seller into your future home improvement budget. Having an inspection done provides a helpful to-do list of projects to save and plan for over your first years in the home.

While the inspection process can seem stressful, it provides extremely valuable insights into your prospective home. In the long run, this information helps protect your investment and prevent expensive surprises down the road.

Does a Home Inspection Affect Appraisal?

The home inspection report itself does not necessarily impact the formal appraisal done for mortgage lending purposes. However, defects and repairs recommended in an inspection report can influence the appraised value in some cases:

• Major safety/code violations - These issues may require repairs before a lender will approve financing based on an appraisal. They directly impact the home's value.

• Costly repairs needed - Large, complex repairs like a new roof or gutters will get factored into the appraisal value as these are taken on by the buyer.

• Quick flips or renovations - If an inspection uncovers shoddy flip work or structural issues from poor renovations, the appraisal amount can be lowered.

• Wear from overdue maintenance - Outdated, worn items like an old furnace can get discounted in the appraisal because replacements are factored in.

So while the inspection itself does not set the appraised value, major issues it uncovers can influence the appraiser's final opinion of value and condition in some scenarios.

In Summary

Having a home professionally inspected before purchase is strongly advised to reveal hidden defects and avoid sticker shock repairs after moving in. In Kalamazoo, there are many reputable home inspection services to choose from. Do your research to pick an experienced local inspector familiar with regional homes.

Interview inspectors thoroughly and verify certifications to find the best fit. Prepare questions to ask during your inspection so you fully understand their findings and recommendations. Be sure to carefully comb through the inspection report and get seller remedies completed before closing.

While not necessarily fun, a home inspection provides invaluable information to make a smart purchasing decision and safeguard your investment in a new Kalamazoo area property. Protect yourself and your family by making a home inspection a non-negotiable part of your home buying process.