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Article | California Success Story | Inspexion

Written by Inspexion Communication Department | 1/30/24 1:47 PM

First Time Home Inspection in California

The most common home inspection types in California are general inspection, foundation inspection, plumbing inspection, septic tank inspection, termite inspection, mold inspection, and chimney inspection.
 
Of these General inspection is the most common type of inspection, which includes a thorough examination of the interior and exterior of the home, roof, foundation, and state of electric and HVAC systems.
 
Foundation inspections are the second most common inspection type, which is recommended for homes with a raised foundation, such as crawl space or pier and beam foundations.
 
Plumbing inspection is the third most common inspection type, which includes checking the drains, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures.
 
The other inspection types are less common, but still important to consider depending on the property.

Septic Tank Inspection:  Evaluate the condition and functionality of septic tank systems. Vital for homes not connected to municipal sewer systems, ensuring proper waste disposal.

Termite Inspection:  Identifies the presence of termites and any resulting damage.  Helps prevent costly repairs by addressing termite issues early on.

Mold Inspection:   Detects the presence of mold and assesses its impact on indoor air quality. Especially relevant in regions with high humidity, addressing mold concerns is crucial for a healthy living environment.

Chimney Inspection:  Examines the condition of the chimney and fireplace.  Ensures safety and functionality, particularly for homes with fireplaces.

Research indicates that home inspections remain a standard part of the home-buying process in California. Nearly 9 in 10 homebuyers used an inspector, with 83 percent doing so due to lender requirements. While appraisals focus on determining the home's value, inspections concentrate on identifying current or potential issues.

Costs and Payment Dynamics:

On average, homebuyers reported paying $377 for inspections, a reasonable expense compared to other costs associated with home purchases. In 80 percent of cases, buyers covered the inspection costs, fostering confidence in the assessment's impartiality. However, sellers occasionally foot the bill as part of closing cost assistance.

According to Statista, California is home to one of the biggest residential real estate markets in the United States. As a state that is famous for sunny weather, breathtaking natural surroundings, and a thriving economy, there is a high level of demand for housing; especially in the major metropolitan areas of Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. Two Californian cities - San Francisco and San Jose - were among the cities where homes sold the fastest in the United States.

Case Study:

We recently assisted a first-time homeowner in San Jose - California by connecting him to a qualified inspector through our online marketplace. The client needed a general inspection for his mortgage and opted for a plumbing inspection as well. By leveraging our platform, he found a professional QC company at a rate below the average online quote. The inspector conducted a thorough general inspection followed by a detailed plumbing assessment, ensuring the client made an informed decision about his new home. By using our platform the client not only saved money by comparing multiple quotes, but also time, with the report posted within a week from the request.

Conclusion:

In the dynamic California real estate market, home inspections are an indispensable part of the homebuying journey. Whether it's a general inspection or a specialized assessment, investing in a comprehensive inspection can provide peace of mind and save homeowners from potential future headaches. As the saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," and when it comes to your home, a thorough inspection is the best preventative measure you can take.

Find out more about home inspections:
https://inspexion.com/lp-home-property-inspections
https://inspexion.com/lp-building-foundation-inspections

Read another great article about home inspection here: https://porch.com/resource/home-inspection-leverage