When you purchase a new home in Texas, some lenders will require a home inspection to ensure their assets are protected. These home inspections are not always required, though, and no Texas law exists making them compulsory. Even when you’re not required to get a home inspection, it’s a great idea to do so, as they can uncover hidden and costly problems now and in the future.
Continue reading to learn more about home inspections in Texas, what they do and don’t include, and why they’re so important.
What Are the Most Common Home Inspections?
When purchasing a home, it’s extremely important to get a home inspection to ensure there are no hidden issues that could require big repairs after the purchase. A home inspection also protects the lender if you get a mortgage, as it ensures the home is structurally sound, which lets the lender know the collateral on the loan is safe.
But what do most home inspections include? You can generally expect a Texas home inspector to check potentially costly items such as the:
Foundation
Interior and exterior structural components
Roof
Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems
Plumbing
Electrical systems
Fireplaces and chimneys
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
A home inspection’s cost will vary based on a range of factors, including the size and type of the home and the inspection company’s going rate per square foot. On average, a general home inspection from a certified home inspector in Texas runs between $375 and $475. You can also get specialized inspections that are more in-depth checks in specific areas of the home, such as the HVAC system, foundation, or roof.
Is an Inspection a Good Idea on a Home?
Yes, an inspection is a great idea for any home you’re considering purchasing. It allows you to identify any potential issues that could arise soon after purchasing the home and drain your bank account. It also allows you to back out of a purchase if the inspection uncovers something serious that you prefer not to deal with down the line.
For example, the current owner may be unaware of a weak foundation that could lead to major issues in the future. If the inspection uncovers this issue, you can either back out of the purchase altogether, request the seller repair it before purchasing the real estate, or knock the estimated repair costs off the home’s price.
What Are Red Flags in a Home Inspection?
There’s a wide range of potential red flags to look out for in a home inspection report. Some may be very obvious, but others might surprise you. Let’s review some red flags to be on the lookout for.
Big-Ticket Items
Watch out for items that can break the bank down the road. This includes the costliest home repairs, including HVAC system repairs or an aging roof. These can put a big dent in your bank account early into home ownership and may make it difficult to afford the mortgage and complete the repairs.
Structural Issues
Structural issues are something to pay close attention to, as these can greatly impact the longevity of your new home. A key indicator of potential structural issues is a cracked or crumbling foundation, which can be rather costly.
Another structural issue to look out for is termite damage. Whether the infestation is active or happened in the past, a termite inspection can review the damage done and determine whether or not it impacts the home’s future structural integrity.
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