Buying a house is an investment, and a huge one. It is the sum of all the hard-earned money you set aside for savings. It may not give you interest income or stock gains, but it provides you and your family with a home. It is the fulfillment of a dream that is rooted way back in your childhood, and the start of a lifetime of memories.
Just like everyone, you don’t want to start your investment with a loss, that childhood dream shattered in an instant. But you can shy away from disappointment by exercising extra caution when choosing your home. You should practise the same prudence that you provide when you choose your insurance or research the best car.
One way to ensure that you get your money’s worth is to seek an independent building inspection. By independent, we mean to say that it is not initiated by the seller, or the inspectors are not related by any means to the seller. This is to avoid bias and doubt that may cloud veracity on the reports submitted to you.
Ideally, through a detailed report, a building inspection helps you uncover problems that may be “hidden” or unapparent during your visits. The report shows a diagnosis of the structure’s condition, including any potential problems that need repairs, safety hazards, pest infestation and insulation issues that may bloat electric bills. Even the defects of a newly constructed home will be uncovered. That fresh smell of paint in your favorite color might be hiding long-term rust. Or, that immaculate wall beautifully enveloped by elaborate design may be concealing plumbing issues or mounds of termites. An inspection is like a doctor’s appointment to find out the current state of health and be diagnosed on issues with specificity.
Of course, such a report will be of relevance only if it is performed by the experts. Otherwise, it’s all just hearsay and not worth a penny to even get a hand on. Just like any professional service, it must be done by those that know building inspection best. Inspectors have to be trained and experienced, even certified, to issue a compelling set of findings and recommendations. If not, they can’t spot red flags on a property, especially those that are not obvious to the naked eye. For instance, all inspectors from building inspection Gold Coast are licensed and have at least five years experience.
An effective inspection uses technology to detect any worries in unreachable areas, like the wall, roof or floor. Inspectors can bring thermal image scanners to determine insulation conditions. Others use remote radar to pinpoint sources of termites and other pests. Moisture sensors are also in the toolbox necessary to evaluate moisture levels and assess any existing or future damage. The pros don’t break walls or roofs just to check for any trouble, they can rely on technology to issue diagnostics without doing damage to the property.
It is truly reassuring to have an expert opinion and professional advice on the dream home you’re going to stay in for years. So before you shake hands and get too pumped up to get the keys, have a look at the property first. Bring in the experts with their tools. Check every corner of the property, from the manicured lawn to the mighty ceiling. It is better to know what you are getting into before it is too late to cancel a deal and take back your hard-earned money.
