Property inspections, don't buy until you're 100% sure

Buying a property is one of the most important decisions you'll make in life. As an expensive purchase, you need to ensure you're investing wisely. That's where a professional property inspection comes in handy. By paying a small fee, you can verify the health of a home before you commit to a costly mistake. This guide will help you understand the importance, process, and cost of pinpointing any flaws in what could be your future home. 

What is a property inspection?

On the surface, a home could look good but have a number of hidden defects. A property inspection uncovers its condition by evaluating its structures, design, and fixtures. The property inspector will compile a report of any areas of concern, their implications, and possible solutions to fix them. 

The property inspection is not an appraisal or a market valuation of the property but simply a snapshot of the property's vital signs. The property inspection report can give you peace of mind before you close the deal. 

Benefits of a property inspection

Seeking the help of property inspectors is an important step in your homebuyer journey. Here are some of the reasons to consider it:

Get expert insight: Your property inspector will provide an objective report, highlighting any concerns with the property. They are trained to spot anything not clear to the naked eye. They can see through that fresh coat of paint or rug that might be covering up a serious crack.

Save money and time: Your property inspector usually charges a few thousand rands and takes a few hours to put together their assessment. While it may seem like a big upfront cost, imagine if they spot something major. You could end up paying thousands of rands in repairs and take days to put your new home right if you didn't take the initial precautions.

Prevent any future conflict: Non-disclosure of defects is a common source of conflict during the home-buying process. However, a good property inspection can help pinpoint any issues arising after the sale has concluded. 

Negotiate the asking price: When your property inspection report reveals flaws, you can use it as a basis to renegotiate the asking price. Sometimes the property can be quickly and easily repaired by the owner or have you compensated for the price of repairs.

Move into a good home: Leaks, outdated wiring, foundation cracks - the list goes on of all the things that can impact your living experience. A property inspection can ensure you buy a home that will provide an acceptable standard of living. And it can even provide you with tips for maintaining your home for the future. 

If you decide to sell or rent out your home at a later stage, it even provides you with benefits. You can use your property inspection report to prevent non-disclosure issues and market your property more attractively. Plus, it can be used to give potential tenants a good account of your property's condition. 

Property inspection process

The inspection process will differ depending on your inspector and property requirements. In general, they will examine the interior and exterior of the home and outbuildings during their assessment. Here are some of the usual items on their checklist:

• Roof
• Waterproofing
• Roof cavity
• Drainage
• Foundations and slabs
• Ceilings
• Windows
• Plumbing and drains
• Electrical and gas installations
• Gates and doors
• Finishes
• Swimming pools and paving
• Boundary and retaining walls

In addition to this, they will check for any health, safety, and building code violations. 

How much does a property inspection cost?

The average property inspection report costs R3,500. However, this price is dependent on these factors:

• Size of your home: You'll be quoted on either the room count or floor area.

• Type of inspection: The extent of the inspection required from just observed defects, safety, and function defects, to specialised inspections for specific areas or conditions such as damp or wall cracks.

• Location of your property: How far the inspector will have to travel out can also impact the cost of the quote. 

If you're a potential home-buyer, it's definitely something to keep in mind when budgeting for your expenses. 

Get help on your real estate journey

As local area experts, Kellaprince Properties can provide recommended property inspectors in your area. We take pride in helping you get the most out of your property experience. View our properties for sale, and contact us today.