Michigan Home Inspections in a Nutshell
n: a checking or testing of an individual against established standards
Home Inspections for Peace of Mind and Knowing What to Fix
Buying or selling a home can be one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your life. With that in mind, it’s essential to ensure that the property is in good condition and that you know what you’re getting into. That’s where a home inspection comes in. A home inspection is an essential part of the home buying and selling process. It’s a chance for a licensed professional to come in and inspect the property to ensure that it’s in good condition and identify any issues that may need addressing.
If you’re buying or selling a home in Kalamazoo, MI, you need to understand the importance of a home inspection and why having a licensed professional is crucial. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at home inspection in Kalamazoo, the certifications a home inspector should have, and why we recommend Bryan Holland at Holland Home Inspections.
Importance of Home Inspection in Kalamazoo, MI:
A home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying or selling process. It can provide peace of mind to both the buyer and seller by identifying any issues with the property. A home inspection can help you avoid costly surprises down the road and ensure that you’re making an informed decision.
In Kalamazoo, MI, a home inspection is even more critical due to the state’s unique weather conditions. Michigan experiences cold, harsh winters that can cause significant damage to homes, especially if they’re not maintained correctly. A home inspection can identify any issues related to winter damage, such as frozen pipes, roof leaks, or foundation issues.
When it comes to home inspections, many people believe that there’s a pass or fail. However, that’s not the case. A home inspection is a comprehensive examination of a property’s condition, identifying any issues or defects. A home inspector’s job is to provide a report on the home’s condition, not to pass or fail it.
It’s important to understand that no house is perfect. Even new construction homes may have issues that need addressing. However, a home inspection can provide valuable information on how to fix the issues and make the home better. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why there’s no pass or fail with a home inspection and why inspectors should be recommending how to fix the house to make it better.
Certifications for Home Inspectors:
When it comes to home inspections, not all inspectors are created equal. It’s essential to work with a licensed professional who has the necessary certifications and qualifications. Here are some of the most common certifications that a home inspector should have:
ASHI Certification: The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is one of the most respected organizations for home inspectors. ASHI certification requires rigorous training and continuing education, ensuring that the inspector has the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct a thorough inspection.
InterNACHI Certification: The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) is another highly respected organization for home inspectors. InterNACHI certification requires extensive training and continuing education, ensuring that the inspector is knowledgeable about all aspects of home inspection.
NABIE Certification: The National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers (NABIE) is a professional organization that certifies engineers who perform home inspections. NABIE certification is highly regarded, and inspectors with this certification are knowledgeable about the engineering aspects of home inspections.
While possessing certifications such as ASHI, InterNACHI, or NABIE can be valuable, having a builder’s license is an unmatched qualification for a home inspector. It requires passing a state-administered test and ensures that the inspector has an in-depth understanding of the entire building process.
Inspectors Should Recommend How to Fix the House
A good home inspector should not only identify any issues or defects with the property but also provide recommendations on how to fix them. The inspector’s role is not to make the house flawless, but to provide information on how to make it better. The inspector should provide suggestions on how to address any issues or defects in the home.
For example, if the home inspector identifies a leak in the roof, they should not only report the issue but also recommend how to fix it. The inspector may suggest repairing or replacing the roof, depending on the severity of the issue. Providing recommendations on how to fix the issue can help the buyer or seller understand what needs addressing and how to go about it.
Some home inspectors may exaggerate issues with a property to get good reviews. They may highlight minor issues and present them as major problems, leading buyers to believe that the property is in worse condition than it actually is. This hyperbole can scare buyers away from a property, ultimately killing the deal.
Additionally, some home inspectors may make recommendations for repairs that are not necessary or relevant to the property. These unnecessary repairs can add to the overall cost of buying a property and may not even address the actual issue.
Importance of Working with a Reliable and Trustworthy Home Inspector
Working with a reliable and trustworthy home inspector is crucial to ensuring that the inspection process is fair and accurate.
Additionally, a good home inspector will provide relevant and accurate data about the property. They will not exaggerate minor issues or make recommendations for repairs that are not necessary or relevant to the property. Instead, they will provide an honest assessment of the property’s condition and make recommendations for addressing any issues that need addressing.
At the Zac Folsom Group, we understand the importance of working with a licensed professional for your home inspection needs. That’s why we recommend Bryan Holland at Holland Home Inspections.
Bryan Holland is a licensed home inspector with over 20 years of experience in the industry. He holds ASHI and InterNACHI certifications, ensuring that he has the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct a thorough inspection. Bryan is also a licensed builder and has experience in all aspects of home construction and repairs. He’s known for his attention to detail and his ability to explain complex issues in a way that’s easy to understand.