Home appraisals and inspections are necessary steps in the home buying process.
A new home will likely be one of the largest financial decisions you make in your life. These two steps will provide you with critical information on your upcoming transaction.
Here’s what to expect from a home appraisal and inspection and why they can potentially save you time, money, and headache down the road.
When you apply for a mortgage, an unbiased appraisal is the best way to verify the value of a home.
Dustin Harris, Appraiser Coach, further clarifies the appraiser’s role,
The appraisal process is critical in helping lenders determine safe loan limits. Today’s housing market is fast-paced and competitive though, meaning home prices and values are constantly changing.
This is causing a problem known as the appraisal gap. This happens when the appraisal comes in below the buyer’s contract price. This can sometimes stop a transaction from proceeding any further.
The inspection is another important process in evaluating a home. While the appraisal determines the current value of your home, the inspection determines the current condition of the home.
The inspection process will make you aware of any potential problems with the home. Anything from old plumbing to a faulty HVAC system. This will give you the opportunity to discuss and negotiate any potential issues with the seller.
An inspection will help prepare you as a new homeowner. They can shed light on costly issues that would otherwise be a surprise later on.
Source: Keeping Current Matters
A proper appraisal and inspection will provide you with unbiased information on the value and condition of a home, critical steps in preparing you for your home purchase.
If you’re going through either process soon, we want to help you prepare. Reach out to one of our Art of Homeownership Professionals to help guide you along the path of buying a new home.