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What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Lakewood Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  November 21, 2022

What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Lakewood Ranch

A home inspection is the process of evaluating the condition of a home to determine its value, potential problems, and the quality of the property and current systems. Home inspections are conducted to provide an unbiased assessment of the condition of a property to help you make an informed decision about whether to purchase the property or not. They can be performed by a trained professional to ensure a home meets the minimum standards for safety and livability.

Whether you’re a buyer or seller, a home inspection is always a good idea for Lakewood Ranch real estate. Here’s what you can expect:

Buyers vs. Sellers


A home inspection’s purpose varies based on whether it is commissioned for a buyer or seller. For a seller, a home inspection can help you identify potential problems, such as leaks or structural issues, so you can make decisions about any necessary repairs or improvements before listing your home. A home inspection report helps sellers decide on renovations, and they can be prepared for any potential negotiations.

Home inspections are a way for home buyers to find out more information about the condition of a property before they purchase it. They are an essential part of the home-buying process, and if you are in the market to buy a home, it is crucial to request a home inspection as a contingency in your offer. A home inspection contingency allows buyers to make informed decisions about purchasing a home, provides room for price negotiations based on the inspection findings, and allows buyers to back out of an offer if they are not happy with inspection results.

The cost of a home inspection



The cost of a home inspection depends on the type of inspection performed, the inspector’s experience, the location, and the size of the home. A buyer or seller can expect to pay between $500 and $1500 for a basic home inspection, which includes an evaluation of the property’s interior and exterior to identify potential problems. Home inspectors with more experience and specialized training can perform additional inspections at a higher cost. Home inspections performed by a certified home inspector are considered a better value since these inspections meet minimum standards for safety and are performed by a professional who can provide additional information about property conditions. Homes for sale in Lakewood Ranch vary significantly in size and amenities and may need different professionals to assess areas like pools and other luxury features.

What is inspected during a home inspection?



During a home inspection, an inspector will evaluate the interior and exterior of the property to identify potential problems. A home inspector will review the systems and components of the home, such as the:

  • Roof
  • Foundation and structural features
  • Heating and AC systems
  • Smoke alarms
  • Security features
  • Floors, doors, and ceilings
  • Windows
  • Visible insulation
  • Plumbing
  • Attics and basements
  • Electrical systems and wiring
After a comprehensive inspection, the inspector will provide a report with their findings and recommendations, which helps buyers and sellers make decisions on how to move forward with the home. It is critical to remember that while an inspection is a complete overview of the home inside and out, there are always potential issues that cannot be detected, such as mold under the bathtub or poor insulation in the walls. For this reason, it is best to work with a certified and experienced home inspector that is thorough and detailed in their inspection and report.

What inspectors don’t inspect



A home inspection aims to identify potential problems in a home before listing or buying the house. A home inspector will thoroughly assess the interior and exterior of the property to identify potential problems. Still, it is essential to note what home inspectors don’t do. The first thing to understand is that a home inspection is not an appraisal and won’t be able to determine the market value of a home. Home inspectors will provide a report with their findings, but it is up to the buyer to conclude about the home’s value or seek a professional appraisal. Some buyers and sellers choose to have an appraisal performed, which will provide an additional set of information about the value of the home. Like many professions, home inspectors can be certified in different areas, and some can inspect fireplaces and chimneys while others will refer you to a specialist. Your home inspections mostly likely will not cover items such as:

  • Small appliances like microwaves
  • Landscaping
  • Locked areas – inspectors will note when they cannot gain access to an area
  • Wells or septic systems
  • Attached accessories, like solar panels
  • Contaminations or toxins in soil and water
  • Swimming pools
  • The ground beneath the home or geological issues
  • Fireplaces and chimney

Pass-or-fail and what to do next


Home inspections are not a pass-or-fail assessment. They investigate the structure and integrity of the interior and exterior to provide a comprehensive overview of the home’s health. It is up to buyers or sellers to determine what they can and cannot live with as they move forward in the process.

Once you receive the home inspection report, it is important to review the findings and determine what actions need to be taken. If the home inspection results were positive, this is an opportunity to make decisions based on the inspection findings, such as if you want to list the home at a higher price or if you want to make the necessary repairs or improvements before you list the home. If the home inspection results are negative, this is an opportunity to back out of an offer without losing too much money or spending additional money on repairs or improvements. It is also an opportunity to negotiate with the seller based on the inspection findings.

Whatever the results, if you decide you are happy with the home inspection report and feel comfortable moving forward as a buyer or seller, Judy Limekiller can help you take the next steps. Judy has lived in Sarasota for more than 20 years and is an expert in the local markets. Start your home search today or learn more about selling your Lakewood Ranch real estate.



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