As a potential homeowner in Nebraska, it is important to be prepared and fully comprehend the interior and exterior components of the house. When you are looking into purchasing a home you want to keep a home inspection checklist handy. 

Understanding your inspection checklist will make you educated when buying a home. Keep reading to know what you must bring to a home inspection checklist. 

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is when you invite in a third party to assess a home's structure and internal operating systems. Using an external party allows a buyer to be fully informed throughout the repurchasing process.

A professional home inspector will look at the whole home to assess any unexpected repairs that must be made to the home. Inviting an inspector will allow the buyer and seller to review their agreement and renegotiate the terms of a contract. As a buyer, it is necessary to include a home contingency in your offer. 

Interior Features

When you move into your home you want to ensure that the internal structure and systems of the house can be maintained. If the property you are looking at is a condo or apartment you will only need to undergo an interior inspection. 

Structure 

Inspectors will survey the property to find any damage or structural weaknesses of the home. These can be cosmetic such as a crack in a wall or be an indicator of a more serious structural issue that affects the integrity of a room. 

Appliances

Inspectors will also review the effectiveness of necessary home appliances. They will run tests to ensure that appliances such as smoke detectors, dishwashers, and disposals. 

When inspectors provide a total review you can assess how much money you will need to budget for the maintenance of these appliances after purchase. 

Plumbing 

One of the most easily overlooked aspects of a home purchase is the plumbing. Without the expertise of a professional inspector, it can be difficult to detect plumbing issues that may cause water damage. 

Your inspector should assess the functionality of your sinks, vents, toilets, and pipes. 

Electrical 

An inspector is tasked to check the electrical system so they can review the electrical system's capacity and make a note of any defects. Your inspector will also ensure that your circuit breakers work well. 

Exterior Features

If you opt to purchase a house, rather than a condo, it is necessary to ensure that your home inspection also encompasses the exterior features of the house. If you are purchasing a unit in a larger complex, the complex would be accountable for the maintenance of the external features. 

Roofing 

As a responsible homeowner, it is important to keep an eye on the lifespan of your roof. This is a very important feature of every home that routinely needs inspection and repair. 

When an inspector reviews the physical structures such as the roof they will assess if the roofing and insulation are due for a replacement or repair. During this roof assessment, your inspector will check on the home's insulation and ventilation features. 

Visible Cracks 

Any visible cracks in the home could be an indicator of a problem with the foundation. These features will need to be immediately repaired or could dramatically affect the value of the home.  

Be Prepared With a Home Inspection Checklist

Once you are given your home inspection review you need to read over and review the report. The official home inspection assessment should grant you the leverage necessary to negotiate for repairs. 

Connect with us to learn more about how you can approach real estate as an educated home buyer in Nebraska.