Real Estate Home Inspections in Key West

A professional real estate home inspection in Key West can vary among localities, but, generally, the aim is to discover any problems with the home that might not be readily apparent. Most inspectors check to make sure there are no material defects or problems with such items as the electrical, plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning systems. The Key West Home inspector also may check for termites, the age of the roof and when it might need replacement, condition of the basic structure including the foundation, evidence of basement seepage, and other problems. Some real estate inspectors check for radon concentrations, lead paint, or other environmental hazards.

A professional real estate inspection should not be alarmist. The idea is to point out problems without exaggerating defects. It's a good idea for the buyer to accompany the inspector during the inspection of your future home in Key West. In this way, the buyer is able to ask questions and to get an idea of the cost of any repairs that are necessary or advisable. Further, the real estate inspector also may suggest ways to better insulate the home or offer maintenance suggestions that can prolong the life of operating systems such as heating and air conditioning in Key West.

Most buyers do not want to pay for an inspection until they have settled on other terms with the seller. To do this, the buyer often uses an inspection rider to provide that the offer to buy is contingent on a favorable inspection of the home.

What to Expect from the Key West Home Inspection

The buyer normally hires a contractor or home inspector to check out the home. The inspector does not care about cosmetic problems that the buyer could easily see such as peeling wallpaper, torn carpet, or flaking paint. The inspector shows an interest only in the structural and mechanical aspects of the home, looking for problems that a buyer is unlikely to notice. These include termite damage, foundation and structural problems, and the age and condition of the roof. The Key West Real Estate Inspector also will examine the condition of the chimney, storm windows, gutters, electrical wiring, and plumbing.

If possible, you will want to accompany the inspector and take notes. In Key West some real estate inspectors charge a smaller fee if the potential buyer does not require a written report. However, be aware that a written report may be required if the buyer intends to cancel the purchase contract because of defects revealed by the inspection.

Inspection fees vary based on such factors as the size and type of building inspected. As a general rule, anticipate a fee somewhere between $250 and $500.