When buying a home, it is very important to have the home professionally surveyed. This will give you all the information you need to determine the condition of the home and how much property goes with it. The type of survey you have performed depends on how much you already know about the property and how much you want to spend to have it surveyed. These are the two property surveying options you have to choose from.
Home Buyer's Report
A home buyer's report is a less expensive option for having a home surveyed. These are often performed on newer built homes that have smaller areas of property. This is the information you can get from having a homebuyer's report performed.
- The condition of the property and if it is worth the purchase price in "as is" condition
- The results of tests done to determine wall dampness, damage to wooden structure and condition of the insulation
- Any major faults that could affect the value of the home
- Any urgent repairs that need to be inspected by and corrected by a specialist
- An estimate of the cost of rebuilding the home should a fire occur
- The value of the home and property on the open market
Full Building Survey
A full building survey will cost more money, but may be the best option if you are buying an especially old home in a location you are not familiar with. When a full building survey is performed, you will get all the information provided in a home buyer's report in addition to the following types of information.
- Complete details of the condition of the home, the property and any other structures that are included
- A list of all building materials that were used to build the home and any additional structures
- A list of all minor and major structural problems, problems with wiring and plumbing problems that currently exist. You will also be made aware of any potential problems that may warrant the need for repairs in the near future.
Regardless of how new a property is or how well you know the seller, it is always a good idea to have a survey performed before signing a contract to purchase a home. The cost of paying for a property survey is often minimal when compared to the cost of major repairs that you were not aware of until after you purchased a home. Contact a local outlet, such as DC Gohn Associates Inc Surveyors & Engineers, for further assistance.
