While there are no Lemon Laws when you purchase a home, there are many things you can do to protect yourself from buying a money-pit that you thought would be your dream home. Many people spend more time test-driving a car than looking at the home they intend to buy.
There is no such thing as a “perfect” home; even brand new homes will have some issues or kinks to be worked out. Your plan should be to have any major issues worked out before you sign on the dotted line at the closing.
Many home inspectors will tell you that potential buyers are often more concerned with the “views” than with the “issues” the home may have. In other words, many purchasers buy with their hearts more than their heads. Buying a home in which to raise your family is, understandably, an emotional decision; but it doesn’t mean you can throw common sense out the window.
One of the first things you will want to do when you decide on the house you wish to purchase is to hire a licensed home inspector. Don’t look at the home through rose-colored glasses before the inspection. The most important thing a home-buyer can do is to hire a trained, licensed and well-reviewed home inspector.
Do not just hire the guy recommended by a co-worker; do some investigating. It is recommended that you spend at least 15 minutes interviewing a potential inspector. Ask for his resume and ask him for references. You will also want to ask for guarantees from an inspector – and get everything written in a contract and signed by you and the inspector.
One of the most important things you need to do is to attend the inspection. Any home-inspector worth his weight should not have a problem with you, the buyer, being there when he inspects the home you hope to purchase.
If you feel you’ve been duped in the home-buying process, please consult our Online Legal Directory to find an attorney in your area.