Inspection vs Appraisal

All too often buyers confuse the role of the appraiser with that of the Home Inspector and when the difference is discovered it is too late, you have already purchased the house. Average appraisal time is about fifteen minutes in the house, vs about two and a half to three hours for a Home Inspection in the same house.

Why get a Home Inspection
A Home Inspection gives you a more detailed information about the condition of the house than an appraisal - information you need to make an informed decision. Performing a Home Inspection, a qualified Inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home to:
- evaluate the physical condition: structure, construction, and mechanical systems
- identify items that need to be repaired or replaced
- estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure and finishes.

What Goes into a Home Inspection
A Home Inspection gives a property buyer an impartial, physical evaluation of the overall condition of the home and items that need to be repaired or replaced. The Inspection gives a detailed report on the condition of the structural components, exterior, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, insulation and ventilation, air conditioning, and interiors.

Be an Informed Buyer
It is your responsibility to be an informed buyer. Be sure that what you buy is satisfactory in every respect. You have the right to carefully examine your potential new home with a qualified home inspector. You may arrange to do so before signing your contract, or may do so after signing the contract as long as your contract states that the sale of the home depends on the inspection.

An appraisal is not a substitute for a Home Inspection by a certified Home Inspector.