Mike's Home Inspector Blog

Essential Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

6/18/2023

Purchasing your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting, expensive and stressful process filled with unknowns. As a home inspector and homeowner with years of experience in both, I have witnessed the joys and frustrations that come with buying a home. In this blog post, I will share some essential tips to help first-time homebuyers navigate the inspection process and make informed decisions. By being proactive and knowledgeable, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new home and avoid potential pitfalls along the way.

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Hire a Qualified and Experienced Home Inspector
One of the most crucial steps in the homebuying process is hiring a reputable and experienced home inspector. Look for professionals who are certified and can provide answers to your home related questions or if you live in or near Halifax, Nova Scotia just give me a call (902-209-9921) or email me directly ([email protected]). A thorough inspection will provide you with a detailed report on the condition of the property, highlighting any potential issues or safety concerns. This information will empower you to make informed decisions regarding repairs, negotiations, or even reconsidering your purchase.

Accompany the Home Inspector
Whenever possible, make it a priority to accompany the home inspector during the inspection process. While it is true some inspectors prefer to be left alone when working, I love when clients follow me around asking thought provoking questions! This allows you to gain firsthand knowledge about the property's condition and learn about any maintenance needs or repairs that may be required either now or in the future. Use this opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspects that are unclear. By being present, you will have a better understanding of your new home’s systems, how to read the inspection report and can make more informed decisions. If there is one thing that stands out about me aside from my height it is how passionate I get when talking about homes and you will never get a boring inspection from me!

Understand the Inspection Report
What sets our company apart is that we not only provide comprehensive reports, but we also write them with user friendly language that is easy to understand. One of my instructors once told me “Nobody is impressed when you use acronyms and big words” and I have taken that to heart. It is important to remember that I have never written a “everything is excellent!” report and probably never will and issues can range from insignificant to potentially catastrophic, although I have never used that term in any report I have written.

An Inspection is an Education
When you hire me for your inspection you aren’t just getting a friendly giant to inspect your home (yes, I am 6’6” and no, I don't play basketball) but you get access to a walking encyclopedia or so I have been told. A home inspection is not only a check for serious issues but an opportunity to learn more about how a home works and why maintenance is so important, especially for newer homes!

As a first-time homebuyer, hiring a qualified home inspector and actively participating in the inspection process is crucial. By understanding the inspection report, planning for repairs and maintenance, and negotiating confidently, you can make informed decisions and enjoy the benefits of homeownership. Remember, a home inspection is not only a safeguard against potential issues but also an educational opportunity to better understand the property you are purchasing. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can embark on this exciting journey with confidence and peace of mind.

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Home Improvement Scams

6/5/2023

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Our goal is for as many of these to remain in your pocket as possible.

When the topic of home inspections arises, most people immediately associate it with real estate transactions. While this connection holds true in many cases, there are instances where I have been called to evaluate issues stemming from sub-standard workmanship. It is worth noting that based on conversations with homeowners and my own observations, the work done by inexpensive contractors can often turn out to be the most costly in the long run.

While it is true that many of these low-cost contractors lack the necessary skills, it's important to highlight that not all of them are dishonest or scam artists. However, over the years, there has been an unfortunate increase in scam activity, with scammers masquerading as contractors. The range of scams is as diverse as the individuals perpetrating them, but let's explore the basics of how one typically operates.

Outline of a Home Improvement Scam
Typically, these scams commence with unsolicited contact—be it through a phone call, text message, or even a knock on the door. Scammers may present various scenarios: claiming to have leftover materials from a neighborhood job, pointing out apparent major issues like a damaged chimney, or offering an irresistible deal contingent upon upfront payment.

The scammers will insist on cash payments and downplay the need for a contract. If met with resistance, they resort to high-pressure sales tactics, often demanding an immediate decision. Eventually, they either disappear with the cash, never to be seen again, or perform subpar work and promptly vanish. When they deliver some work instead of outright theft, the situation transforms from a criminal offense to a civil dispute, which means involvement from law enforcement agencies becomes challenging.

Avoiding Home Improvement Scams
Fortunately, there are numerous ways to minimize the risk of falling victim to such scams. Here are a few effective strategies to consider:

Exercise caution with unsolicited offers: In my profession, I can confidently state that neither I nor any reputable contractor initiates direct unsolicited contact with potential clients. Be wary of individuals reaching out to you without prior solicitation.
Document everything: A written agreement is essential. Before commencing any home inspection, we insist on a signed agreement that clearly outlines the scope of the work to be done. This practice ensures transparency and protects both parties involved.
Beware of cash-only transactions and pressure to act immediately: Reputable contractors not only accept credit cards but encourage their use. Cash-only demands or high-pressure tactics should raise red flags, indicating potential scam activity.
Exercise skepticism towards "free" inspections: As an experienced professional, I can attest that running an inspection company incurs costs, making it impossible to offer genuinely free services. Be wary of individuals claiming to provide free home inspections, as they may have alternative motives. Remember, like most home inspectors we do not engage in repair work or offer referrals to repair contractors.

The Value of Trustworthy Professionals
Throughout my career, I have worked diligently to establish a reputation based on trust and honesty. Being a knowledgeable and unbiased home inspector is a tremendous responsibility. It's important to recognize that inspection companies offering remarkably low prices are likely cutting corners to maintain their rock-bottom rates. Similarly, reputable contractors, who may not come cheap, ultimately save you substantial amounts of money in the long term.

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