Hire inspector to inspect new home (Atlanta, Roswell: real estate, attorney, buying)

[kelingdun]

Hi all:

We are buying a new home. On the contract, they say buyer can hire a professional inspector to inspect the home. Has anyone ever taken up on this? Thanks

[JPD]

Yes. Hire an inspector, and don't ask the builder/seller if they know of a good one. Find someone who isn't buddy-buddy with the builder or seller.

[George Chong]

As a real estate agent, I always advise my clients to utilize the skills of a home inspector. Even though it is a new build - the home inspector's job is to fine any problems that the average person cannot notice themselves.

On past inspections they have discovered the following on new construction:

non-grounded electrical outlets
insulation improperly installed
gas line not properly sealed
roof shingles missing
flashing not installed at key spots along the roof

Just because a house has received it's Certificate of Occupancy - the county inspectors cannot see everything. I think that it is a wise investment.

Here is a link of a company that I use a lot. They work for you, not for the builder or the Buyer's Agent - your protection is their primary and unbiased opinion.

House Smart - Home Inspector in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Canton & Woodstock

Good luck and enjoy your new home!

[irvm]

Originally Posted by kelingdun

Hi all:

We are buying a new home. On the contract, they say buyer can hire a professional inspector to inspect the home. Has anyone ever taken up on this? Thanks

Yes - this is very important. If possible, be there when he/she does the inspection.
You'll have a better idea of how thorough the inspection was, and you may pick up some hints about maintenance as well. Sometimes, they can save you from a costly mistake.

[dncngrl1964]

Originally Posted by kelingdun

Hi all:

We are buying a new home. On the contract, they say buyer can hire a professional inspector to inspect the home. Has anyone ever taken up on this? Thanks

Oh yes definately hire one
all it takes is for 1 person to not connect a pipe properly or ductwork
Things may look right to you but an inspector will be able to tell you if things were installed properly

make sure you hire your own and not one that they might know of

[migee]

Yes!...Yes!...Yes!...Always get an inspector!

If you do not know one in the area, ask your attorney if they know one...

I had experiences on several occasions with using inspectors, and they were always great...It was like being introduced to the house all over again...They pointed out things that I could not see, or I overlooked...

On one occasion they saved me from buying a beautiful house that had problem wiring in the walls (that the owner did himself), and other structural defects that I would never be aware of...Enough to get us out of the contract....

[wxjay]

Without a doubt you need an inspection, even if it is new construction. And don't get the cheap inspection either. They cost a bit ($500-800) but it will be worse if there are major foundation issues later that you will need to fix.

[JPD]

In my opinion, you need an inspection ESPECIALLY if it is new construction.

[kelingdun]

Thanks all.

Thank you George. The home I am buying is in forsyth. I will give your inspector a call.


Jim Chien

[sj73]

If you are building a home from the bottom up, I would suggest a "phased" inspection. The inspector will come out at least three times to view the foundation, framing/wiring and then the final walk through. This is advice for those that read this and are planning to build in a subdivision or lot.