According to FHA anyone purchasing a new property should get a home inspection. First of all what is the FHA. FHA stands for Federal Housing Administration. FHA helps people become homeowners by insuring mortgages for lenders. This enables lenders to offer mortgages to first-time buyers and others who may not qualify for conventional loans. Because the FHA insures the loan for the lender, the buyer pays only a very low down-payment.
However, FHA does not guarantee the value or condition of the potential new home. If the homeowner finds problems with the new home after closing, FHA canot give or lend money for repairs or buy the home back from the new owner.
For these reasons its important to get and independent home inspection. Ask a qualified home inspector to inspect your potential new home and give you the information you need to make a wise decision.
What’s the difference between an Appaisal and a Home Inspection?
An appraisal is required for the lender. The lender does an appraisal for three reasons:
- to estimate the value of a house
- to make sure that the house meets FHA mimimum property standards
- to make sure that the house is marketable
Why a Buyer Needs a Home Inspeciton
A home inspection gives the buyer more detailed infomation than an appraisal. In a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home to:
- evaluate the physical condition: structure, construction and mechanical systems
- identify items that need to be repaired or replaced
- estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure, and finishes
What Goes into a Home Inspection
A home inspection gives the buyer an unbiased, physical evaluation of the overrall condition of the home and items that need to be repaired or replaced. The inspection gives a detailed report on the condition of the structural components, exterior, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, insulation and ventilation, air conditioning, and interiors.
Be an Informed Buyer
It is your responsibility to be an informed buyer. You have the right to carefully examine your potential new home with a qualified home inspector. You can set an appointment with a home inspector of your choice or you may do so after signing the contract as long as your contract states that the sale of the home depends on the inspection.
This information is provided by: US Department of Housing
and Urban Development (HUD)
Federal Housing Administration