Whether you’re buying a lovely old “fixer-upper” in Colorado Springs or brand-new construction in Pike’s Peak, you’ll want to have the property inspected inside and out before you sign a contract.

Once you know what repairs the home requires, you may be able to work them into your offer or negotiate with the sellers to have them pay for some of the fixes. Or you can decide there’s too much repair work and just keep house hunting. But it’s the home inspection that helps you make these important decisions.

A home inspection will vary with the kind of Colorado property you are buying. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), a standard inspection will cover the following areas:

• Heating and central air systems
• Interior plumbing
• Electrical systems
• Roof, attic and visible insulation
• Walls, floors, ceilings
• Doors and windows
• Foundation and basement
• Structural components

However, inspectors are not required to move yard debris, plants or snow to look for hidden problems and are not liable for missing them. Nor are inspectors required to identify latent defects or check home systems not readily accessible (i.e. inside walls). It’s also worth knowing that inspectors do not have to note potentially harmful plants or animals such as termites and molds. Talk with your home inspector about these areas prior to the inspection.

Remember that you don’t have to reject your potential Colorado dream home just because it needs repairs. Every house needs something. Your job is to get the facts and then decide what you can spend and/or how much work you want to do if you buy that home.

The bottom line is to find an inspector you trust and who is ASHI licensed so that every potential issue can be identified. A good home inspection will provide some peace of mind as you make one very large investment.

A good real estate agent will help you negotiate all aspects of your home purchase, including the inspection. When you’re ready to buy or sell a home in the Pike’s Peak Area, call The Roshek Group! We are ready to help you with all of your real estate needs.

-------

Colorado Living ...Where Dreams Come True

The Roshek Group

719-687-1531

PikesPeakRegion.com