Home Inspection Secrets

Home buyers in California have the right to secure inspection reports on the systems and components of a property as a condition of sale. Although ill-advised, they also have the option to waive that right.

FACT: California real estate sale/purchase contracts will typically include contingencies, not the least of which is a specified window of opportunity to have a property inspected by a qualified inspector. Transactions are concluded and escrows closed on the release of such contingencies, and ownership of the property transfers from one person or entity to another.

REALITY: Currently, the standard sale/purchase contract on a home includes a seventeen day inspection contingency period. By agreement this time-frame is often modified, typically lessened, based on various factors; the most common being market trends favoring the seller. The countdown to expiration of inspection (or other) contingencies begins upon written acceptance of the offer. Time becomes of the essence to the buyer to engage the services of a properly qualified inspector to secure an inspection, and review and approve an inspection report.

As an independent, objective and unbiased third-party reporter, the home inspector works for and reports directly their client. Inspection findings and report information are for the sole use and benefit of the buyer.

FACT: Selection of the inspection professional is the prerogative of the buyer. The majority of prospective home buyers are not knowledgeable of the inspection process and unprepared when it comes to exercising their right to an inspection. Most buyers are unaware of the variables in inspection services, erroneously believing that some sort of universal standard exists and all that matters is cost.

REALITY: Experienced inspection professionals with proven track records will be uncompromising in their work, respectful of their client confidentiality ethic and command higher fees. Lack of due diligence in the qualifying and selection of an inspector can be a recipe for disaster. While top producers are generally well informed, often the majority of real estate agents has little knowledge of, or experience with, inspectors to adequately advise or direct in their fiduciary relationship with their buyer clients.

Preferred providers of professional services will always be in high demand. Being on a waiting list doesn’t work in contingencies; one cannot “back-order” a real estate inspection.

FACT: All too often buyers delay in selecting and arranging in advance the availability of their inspector. In working with buyers, few agents advise their clients to prepare to exercise their right to inspection a property. The choices of inspector are far greater when not made under the pressure of time constraints; many buyers confuse so-called “on the spot” reports with “same day service”.

REALITY: Along with lack of due diligence in the qualifying and selection of an inspector, hastily arranged inspections can be to the detriment of the buyer. Beyond properly qualifying an inspector, the next most important thing a prospective buyer should check is availability and the necessary amount of lead-time to schedule and properly conduct an inspection. By virtue of their reputation, popular inspection professionals are busy, and carefully calendar time in advance to accommodate their clients and keep up with their workload.

Homebuyers and sellers are urged to retain the services of qualified inspectors trained and experienced in home inspection. It is also very important that the inspector be a member of a well-founded professional association such as CREIA. Established in 1976, CREIA is the largest and oldest state inspection association in the country. CREIA inspectors must adhere to CREIA's Code of Ethics and follow the Standards of Practice developed and maintained by the Association. Recognized by the State of California, these Standards of Practice are considered the source for Home Inspector Standard of Care by the real estate and legal communities.

About Steve Zivolich and Guaranteed Property Inspections: www.gpinspect.com

Steve Zivolich, M.A., the owner/operator of Guaranteed Property Inspection and Mold Investigation Inc. has been providing property and environmental inspections for over 13 years in Orange County and Southern California.

Steve Z. has performed over 6,000 home inspections, mold, energy and environmental inspections and is fully certified and insured to meet all your inspection needs. He personally provides all field inspection services and as a result is able to maintain the highest Better Business Bureau rating of A+.

Steve has extensive training and years of experience as a home, mold, energy and environmental inspector that will guarantee that you receive the most thorough, state of the art and comprehensive inspection that follows current industry standards of practice and codes of ethics, a true value and education at a fair price. He conducts every inspection, as if he were moving his own family into the property. Steve also backs up every home inspection with a 90 day warranty, that is purchased on your behalf from American Home Warranty Association.

Unlike other home inspection companies, who will need to refer you to an environmental and/or energy audit contractor, Steve is a nationally certified expert that can handle the job without making you jump through hoops to hire additional people before the end of your inspection period, including the areas of: mold, asbestos, allergens, child safety, radon, formaldehyde, energy, EMF, water quality, and VOC's. As a result of his advanced training, he is able to offer a FREE energy audit and FREE mold investigation as well, with each home inspection.
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Please take the time to read through Steve's home inspector credentials and qualifications as this is so important when hiring an inspector. Don't focus on price alone, focus on value, quality, experience and professionalism. When you hire an inspector, any inspector, you are hiring their individual knowledge, experience and qualifications so make sure you hire the best, not just the cheapest. We are confident that you will be Steve's next satisfied customer.