HOME INSPECTION – SELLERS’ NIGHTMARE?

HOME INSPECTION – A SELLER’S NIGHTMARE – OR DREAM?

The biggest source of worry for a home seller is the dreaded home inspection – when the buyer hires a professional inspector to go through the house to discover any defects.  Sellers worries that an expensive give-back will be demanded – or worse, that a dishonest buyer will use the inspection as a price re-negotiation.

It doesn’t need to be that way.  An inspection can be a seller’s best friend.

Real estate law favors buyers who need to be informed about the property they’re purchasing.  The seller is obligated to only inform them of known defects.  A thorough home inspection shifts much of the burden of disclosure on the professional home inspector.  The results of the inspection will cover most of the issues a home seller might have to disclose.  The homeowner is not obligated to know everything about his house, including unknown defects.

Should a home seller hire his own home inspector before the sale?

Not necessarily.  Most sellers wait until they see the result of the buyers inspection.

Remember, the seller is not under any obligation to address inspection issues.  An unfair inspection item can be challenged, even to the extent of bringing in a seller’s expert.  A repair or credit is always negotiable, and most can be reasonable worked out.

So, sleep well at night knowing the home inspection is your best friend,