If you’re buying or selling (but especially buying), a home inspection is a crucial part of the process that too often is seen as just another step.
So here are the 3 keys to make sure you come out on top and avoid surprises after you move in!
1. Inspect the Inspector First! Make sure your inspector is certified, qualified and experienced. You want someone who is going to check things thoroughly and not just check the boxes. Find a good inspector early as the good ones can often be like a popular restaurant – hard to get a reservation.
2. Be Present for the Inspection If at all possible make sure you attend the inspection too! It may take a few hours so block out the morning or afternoon if needed. You can be part of process, ask questions, get feedback on possible costs if repairs are necessary.
3. Sellers do a pre-inspection Inspection If you are getting ready to put your house on the market it’s a good idea to get a pre-sale inspection. If the inspections turns up things that need to be repaired or fixed this will help make a smooth sale and closing while avoiding surprises!
How Does the Fed Rate Hike Affect Homeowners?
Last week the Federal Reserve announced it was raising the Federal Fund rate by a quarter percentage point rate, the first rate increase in three years. You are probably wondering what that actually means for homeowners.
Although not officially connected this normally means mortgage rates go up, and rates have increased recently. The Fed has also indicated that it will increase rates even more in the coming months as inflation is one of their top priorities.
If you are currently on a fixed interest rate mortgage the won’t affect your rate or your mortgage payments. If you have an ARM variable rate mortgage then it will be affected affected and you may want to consider locking into a fixed rate mortgage before rates go higher. If you are under contract on a new loan, you may want to consider locking in your rate to avoid further rate increases. Everyone has a unique situation so schedule an analysis on our website and we can see what if any course of action best fits your needs!