For many having a home inspection completed before closing escrow is a bit like purchasing insurance. If everything is in working order it seems like a waste of money. You can’t hold onto or cuddle-up with or even resell “peace of mind” which makes the primary reason for an inspection a bit difficult to embrace. For most of us the value is found only when a major defect is discovered and we have the option to cancel the purchase or make a price adjustment.
Yet there is more to a home inspection. These inspections also provide the would-be home-owner a basis for maintenance planning. One of the best ways to retain or improve your home’s value is to keep it in good repair. For example, the report discloses missing or damaged flashing at the chimney. There is no visible evidence of water intrusion. Yet water is and has been slowly seeping into a roofing truss. As time passes a minor repair issue grows into a major repair which lowers the value of the home.
Water, electricity and propane are expensive on the island. Homes in good repair save money every single day in the form of less waste of these resources. Having a professional inspector’s written report highlights existing or developing problems and gives a homeowner the ability to make minor repairs which result in savings on the cost of these items.
At some point, usually ofter closing escrow, it is a good idea to review your inspection report and create a spreadsheet listing the the major components of your home such as heating, plumbing, electrical, roof and foundation. The inspection report usually breaks down your home into these components. From the report note the age and condition and any notations or suggestions into separate columns. If the report doesn’t give you an approximate age and life expectancy you’ll have a little research to perform before you enter that information.
Lesson learned, Orcas Island is a small community where you may run into tradesmen on the ferry, in the local hardware store or in line at the grocery store. The good tradesmen on the island are usually busy. Those who love their trade also love to talk about their service. Whether you hang-out in the store or volunteer with one of the many organizations, go out and meet the locals. Like all small communities people are more willing to give priority to a neighbor over a total stranger. Can you think of a better way to kill an hour long ferry ride than talking to a professional about work you may need to have done at your new home?
If you want to become “a local” and need a place to start, call me at 619.224.9015. We will find you the perfect home while discussing the method of networking which best meets your needs.