BOULDER, CO, Apr 23, 2024—When gearing up to buy a home, there are likely a million things on your mind, and hiring a home inspector may not be one of them.
However, hiring a home inspector is a critical component of a successful home purchase, and not doing so could have major repercussions. Below,Phil Boren, Broker Associate of RE/MAX of Boulder, Inc. weighs in.
“A home inspector is a paid professional – often a contractor or an engineer – who checks the safety of a home,” Boren explains. Home inspectors search for defects or other problems, focusing particularly on the home’s structure, construction, and mechanical systems.
A home inspection typically takes place after a purchase contract between the buyer and seller has been signed. “Always include an inspection clause in your written offer,” says Boren. This clause gives you an “out” from buying if serious problems are detected. It also gives you another chance to negotiate the purchase price if repairs are needed. The clause can even specify that the sellers fix any problem that is uncovered before you settle, or close, on the home.
“Buying a home without getting expert advice is risky,” cautions Boren. Once a home inspector uncovers major plumbing and electrical problems, for example, you may decide you do not want to spend several thousand dollars on repairs.
In addition to major structural issues, Boren suggests you consider hiring experts to inspect the home for a number of health-related risks like radon gas, asbestos, or possible problems with the water or waste disposal system.
“Hiring a home inspector can save you from accidentally purchasing a money pit,” says Boren. Never purchase a home without first having it examined.
For more real estate information, please contact RE/MAX of Boulder, Inc. at philboren@gmail.com, 303-441-5647, or RE/MAX of Boulder, Inc..
Phil Boren is a 26-year veteran real estate Broker and Realtor, specializing in consulting with buyers and sellers in Boulder, CO and along the Front Range of Northern Colorado. Held Real Estate Broker's license in Texas, California and Colorado; Managing Broker for over 200 agents and Brokers for Century 21 and RE/MAX franchises. Award-winning Realtor with experience in management, sales, marketing, relocation, appraisal, REO, BPO's, foreclosures, short sales; previously held the MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute. Experienced in both residential and commercial real estate and achieved the No. 14 individual ranking in the 5-state, Mt. States Region for RE/MAX International in 2001, based on sales volume. Received my BSBA in Finance and Real Estate from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, where he was a 4-year starter and 4-year football letterman for Hall-of-Fame coach, Lou Holtz.