PRE-OFFER OPINION

Scope

Because of pressure in the current market, people feel pushed to make an offer on a home without a home inspection. Many clients are not comfortable purchasing a home without an inspection and we all know this can be risky. We have been doing post-closing inspections for many clients recently and have unfortunately uncovered mold and rot problems, mice and bat activity, electrical and fire safety issues as well as other issues that need attention and were not anticipated by the client. Here is a possible solution to this problem.

We have recently provided a Pre-Offer Opinion for several clients in hopes of giving some helpful perspective during the limited time allowed during a showing. With over 50 years of combined experience in the construction, code enforcement, and home inspection fields, we can spot serious issues quickly. This should allow a client to have more confidence when making an offer based on what is seen during the showing.

What this service entails

A pre-offer assessment at the time of showing is a a simple visual assessment of a building with no special tools and no written report.
Particular attention is paid to areas and systems which are commonly problematic or symptomatic of significant defects. We look for serious issues that could impact health and/or safety, or would require an immediate repair. This includes an assessment of water control, potential moisture (mold) in the basement and the attic (if accessible), and identification of potential areas of heat loss and inefficiency, as well as fire and safety issues.
At the conclusion of the showing, the inspectors will give the client a verbal summary.

Cost

The cost for a Pre-Offer Opinion is typically $400.00 depending on size and location. A full inspection can be provided at a reduced fee after purchase if the client wants a more in-depth written assessment of the property. The benefits of a written report include

A clear inventory of systems in a building.
A list of defects which need attention.
A list of suggested maintenance activities.
Contact information for service providers.
Suggested upgrades (generally geared toward energy efficiency and indoor air quality).

We detected a ("mousey" smell) in a basement which lead to the discovery of droppings and a dead mouse in the heating ductwork.

Electrical inspection often reveals fire safety issues as seen in this photo. Often, evidence of water in the panel is also detected.

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