Navigating the intricate process of buying a home in Ohio can be both exciting and overwhelming. Among the crucial steps that potential homeowners must undertake, a comprehensive home inspection is one of the most important. In this Redfin article, we asked some of the top Ohio home inspectors for their best tips for homebuyers navigating the process. So whether you’re considering buying a home in Columbus or a house in Cleveland – keep reading so you can make informed decisions and embark on your homeownership journey with confidence.
Why should you get a home inspection in Ohio?
Getting a home inspection in Ohio is essential for uncovering potential issues that might not be visible during a casual walkthrough. It provides crucial insights into the overall condition of the property, enabling you to make informed decisions and negotiate effectively before finalizing a home purchase. By identifying potential problems early on, you can avoid costly surprises and ensure a smoother transition into your new Ohio home.
Michael Hazlett ofClarity Property Inspectionsrecommends getting a home inspection even if the home is brand new. “You absolutely should have any newly purchased house inspected, even if it’s brand new,” says Michael.“We find significant issues even in new construction.”
Dan Schuerman ofSchuerman Inspections adds, “With market pressures continuing to make it difficult for Ohio buyers to secure an accepted offer, many have chosen to waive the home inspection process to gain the advantage against multiple offers. This practice can lead to problems after the purchase.”
“The purchase of a home is one of, if not the largest investment the average person will make in their life,” says Hollis Crump of Noble Home Inspections. “A home inspection helps to assess risk tolerance for the buyer and is a fraction of the cost of the home’s purchase price. A home inspection can provide you with a peace of mind in your investment. At a minimum it can be a visual to-do list for items that need to be repaired in the home.”
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What specialized inspections should Ohio buyers consider?
“Most inspectors offer a general home inspection. This includes the most visible items in the home,” says Steven Mathis ofGold Star Inspections. “From checking the electrical panel to checking the plumbing for leaks.”
However, aside from the standard home inspection, specific situations might demand specialized inspections. If issues are suspected during the general inspection, your inspector might propose a specialized assessment.
Jim Wendle ofJW Property Inspection recommends that homebuyers always get inspections for termites and radon.
“Another great idea is to have the sewer pipe evaluated with a sewer camera, especially if it’s an older home, since it’s one of the costliest systems to repair or replace,” adds Michael Hazlett of Clarity Property Inspections.
Are home inspections required in Ohio?
While they aren’t necessarily required, it’s advisable that all homebuyers get one for financial and safety reasons.
“Are home inspections required? No, but they should be,” says Todd Engle ofGood Eye Home Inspections. “Too many consumers are getting homes without inspections, causing safety and harm to them and their families. I understand the need and desire for a home, but waiving home inspections should never be considered. There are too many health and safety issues that we find lurking in homes that need to be addressed by the seller.”
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The cost of a home inspection in Ohio can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, its location, and the complexity of the inspection. On average, a standard home inspection in Ohio ranges from $200 to $500. However, this price can change based on additional services or specialized inspections that may be required, such as radon testing, mold assessment, or termite inspection. It’s advisable to contact local home inspection companies to get accurate quotes tailored to your specific needs.
Can you sell a house in Ohio without an inspection?
Indeed, in Ohio, there’s no legal obligation for a formal inspection before selling a house. Nevertheless, it’s important to recognize that numerous buyers in the state typically anticipate or ask for an inspection during due diligence. Choosing a pre-sale inspection before listing your home can offer insights into its condition, enabling you to proactively tackle any concerns and showcase the property more positively to potential buyers.
Expert advice for Ohio homebuyers
“Water is the enemy of your home, as it causes almost all the damage, says Chris Stout of CBS Home Inspection. “Water can cause issues with mold, wood-destroying insects, premature deterioration of building materials, and plumbing leaks. Maintaining proper grading and watershed around the exterior of a home and keeping all exterior cellulose-based materials and entry points into the home properly sealed will help prolong the life of your home.”
No matter how old or new a house is, it’s important to identify issues that might otherwise cost thousands of dollars to fix down the road. An Ohio home inspection will do exactly that, saving money down the road and giving you one less thing to worry about.
If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our
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Chibuzo is a Content Marketing Specialist on Redfin’s content marketing team. He’s been with Redfin for over two years and enjoys running and playing basketball when he’s not writing. His dream home is a Mediterranean-style house with a large kitchen and plenty of windows.
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