Friday, December 14, 2007

Got Home Inspection Questions?


How do home inspections work? How long does it take? Who gets the report? All your questions are answered here by Anchorage Home Inspector Kevin Jones of Quality Home Inspections. He has been inspecting homes in Alaska since 1998 and has personally performed over 2500 inspections.
“As professional Home Inspectors, its our job to look for signs of those hidden problems for you. The Home Inspection is an unbiased, professional assessment of the condition of the house. It provides you an expert opinion and professional report on the condition of the physical structure and various systems within a house. Giving you peace of mind on what is likely the largest purchase youll ever make.
“In order to prepare the report, an inspector must conduct a visual inspection of the house. The inspection process typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete. This of course may vary, according to the size and condition of the home. We strongly encourage you to accompany the inspector during the inspection. This will give you a chance to ask questions and become familiar with the systems of the home.
“We will inspect all the structural elements and systems of the home. Items that will typically be included in an inspection are:
 Framing (structure)
 Roof and attic
 Foundation
 Walls
 Electrical system
 Plumbing system
 Heating and air conditioning systems
 Kitchen
 Bathrooms
“Additional items and systems unique to a particular home can also be inspected.
“When the inspection is complete, well tell you of any problems that were discovered and discuss them with you. We will also tell you about any routine maintenance that should be performed, as well as answer any questions you may have. Youll also receive a full written report of the inspection.
“Our goal is to discover and inform you of anything we find that might affect your purchase decision. Well tell you about any problems we find, and make repair recommendations. Well also inform you of what maintenance tasks are required to keep the home and its systems in top condition.”
Do you have more questions? Give us a call or check out Kevin’s full website at www.Qualhome.com.

Friday, December 7, 2007

What is a Home Warranty? Do you need one?

According to Home Security of America, Most homes experience at least two mechanical failures each year. Without HSA Home Warranty protection, typical repair/replacement costs* would be:

System / Repair / Replacement
Heating system / $95-$600 / $1,325-$3,700
Central air / $200-$1,100 / $1,475-$4,200
Water heater / $85-$210 / $420-$705
Plumbing / $100-$1,200 / $480-$2,225
Refrigerator / $80-$515 / $525-$2,100
Oven/Range / $80-$310 / $415-$1,600

*Based on HSA's estimates of retail cost for repairs and replacements of items listed above. Costs may vary in your geographic area.

These costs continue to go up every year, so it's crucial that homeowners are protected from the financial burden incurred should a covered item need repair or replacement.

Lets go over some Home Warranty basics:

Q: What is a home warranty?
A: A home warranty provides coverage for homeowners when their home's mechanical systems or appliances break down due to normal wear and tear. The plan covers the cost of repairing the system or appliance, less the applicable deductible.

Q: What is covered under my home warranty?
A: The HSA home warranty coverage varies from state to state, but generally includes the property's plumbing, electrical, central air conditioning and central heating systems, water well system and structural coverage. Many appliances are covered under the standard coverage; some may be available at an additional charge.

Q:How much is a home warranty?
A: Though prices vary, A warranty on a single family residence is around $360 (depending on choice of deductible amount).

Q: What are the benefits of including a home warranty on the house that I'm selling?
A: The benefits are many, including coverage during your listing period. You also benefit from the likelihood that your home will sell more quickly and at a higher selling price. Homes with warranty coverage attract more buyers than similar homes without a warranty. Plus, you're protecting yourself from the potential of post-sale property conditions that can lead to additional expenses after closing when you offer a home warranty.

Q: How do I get a home warranty on the house I'm buying?
A:If the seller does not offer you a home warranty, write it into the Offer to Purchase as a condition of the sale and ask the seller to pay for it at closing, or purchase the coverage yourself.

Q: How long does the HSA warranty coverage last?
A: Seller's coverage is in effect during the listing, up to 12 months. Buyer's coverage is effective on the date of closing for up to 12 months. The warranty is renewable on an annual basis.

Do you have more questions? Give me a call at 865-6520 and I will give you all the details!