Congratulations! You've made an offer, and reviewed all the documents the seller has provided regarding the condition of the home. But, you have one important step before you finalize your real estate offer, one that could help to avoid a costly home buying mistake.

Once you have arranged for a home inspection, plan to accompany the inspector for the entire procedure. You have the right to be there, and leading home inspection companies will encourage your presence. It helps you to better understand the findings in the report and will reduce post-closing hassles. Don't forget your list of questions and items of concern.

A thorough home inspection covers more than 1,000 items, everything from the foundation to roof and takes two to three hours depending on the size of the property. The report should reflect the condition of about 400 items. A typical inspection costs $200-$400 and takes about three hours.

Some common items a home inspection could uncover are:

• maintenance problems such as rotting decks, paint chips, water damaged ceilings, etc.
• electrical problems (even faulty fuses can lead to bigger difficulties in the future)
• structural damage caused by water seepage into the foundation, floor joists, and door headers that should be discovered at the source can easily be identified with a home inspection
• drainage problems; these could include water intrusions below the home
• roof leaks and defects from aging
• poor ventilation, especially in an attic; this is the time to assure that all vents are clean and working properly
• excess air leakage due to poor weather stripping and subpar caulking around fixtures
• failed window seals, which are routinely found with dual pane windows
• environmental contamination caused by asbestos, mold, formaldehyde
• lead paint, radon, soil contamination, and/or water contamination
• faulty lines in water heaters, overflow piping, and/or hazardous flue conditions

What Does a Typical Home Inspection Cover?

External Conditions & Surfaces
Roof, Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
Plumbing & Electrical Systems
Appliances
Heating & Cooling Systems
Foundations, Slabs & Floors 
Walls & Ceilings
Garage, Walls & Driveway

An Experienced Home Inspection Company
Integrity, Honesty, Objectivity.....
SERVING ALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Six to Eight weeks prior:

• Purchase or rent moving supplies: tape, markers, scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, blankets, moving pads, plastic storage bins, rope and a hand truck. Free boxes can usually be obtained at a local supermarket, but consider purchasing wardrobe boxes for moving clothes.
• Have a garage sale to clear out unwanted items and plan accordingly. Consider donating unwanted items.
• Keep a detailed record of all moving expenses. Your costs (and donations) may be tax deductible depending on the reasons for your move.

Two weeks prior:

• Hire a reputable mover or rent a moving truck. Be sure to get referrals or references, check with the Better Business Bureau, get estimates, purchase moving insurance.
• Two weeks before moving day, contact your telephone, electric, gas, cable/satellite, refuse and water companies to set a specific date when service will be discontinued. Contact utilities companies in your new town about service start dates, including internet and telephone services.
• Notify healthcare professionals (doctors, dentists, veterinarians) of your move and ask for referrals and record transfers.
• Register children for school and ask for school records to be transferred.
• Notify lawn service, cleaning and security companies when service should be terminated.
• Advise the post office, publications and correspondents of change of address and date of move.
• Check your homeowner's insurance and make arrangements for new coverage.

Moving Day

• Have tools handy for breaking down beds and appliances.
• Move valuables (jewelry, legal documents, family photos and collections) yourself - don't send them with the moving company. Make sure you have a complete home inventory of all your possessions.
• Give every room a final once over. Don't forget to check the basement, yards, attic, garage and closets.
• Have the final payment for the movers and money for a tip.
• Don't forget to check in with your local CENTURY 21® Real Estate Professional - he or she may be able to provide useful local advice, and/or referrals.