Redondo Beach Home Inspector Craig Funabashi warns buyers that inspecting foreclosures is just as important as inspecting seller occupied homes. -Maybe more so.

Sellers are required to disclose all known significant defects. But, if a foreclosure home is owned by a bank, the bank has never lived in the property, so it is not likely there will be very much information on any of the required disclosure statements. In this situation, it is especially important for buyers to take the necessary steps to know the true condition of the property. The buyer’s due diligence and the real estates agent’s duty to protect their client’s interests, as well as their own liability, by requiring an inspection is equally important.

Homes usually go into foreclosure because the owner can no longer afford the mortgage payments. As a result, maintenance and repairs get neglected as well. In some cases, disgruntled owners that are foreclosed upon actually do damage to the property. Some of the damage is obvious, but many times it is not, except to the trained eye of a qualified home inspector going through the home methodically. It is critical that the buyers know the condition of the structure and all the major systems. A good home inspector will provide that information.

Even if the bank is unwilling to negotiate over any discovered defects, the information the buyer receives from a thorough home inspection is invaluable in making an informed decision. Even if there are plans to do significant remodeling, why risk discovering problems with the furnace, foundation or structure after you close escrow and begin work? Better to eliminate any big surprises and know up front by getting a detailed home inspection following recognized standards of practice. A good inspection company should be able to assist with prioritizing necessary repairs and maintenance. Even the most expensive home inspector can save the buyer thousands of dollars. It’s the most valuable service in the transaction.

Property Professor, Inc., a Redondo Beach Home Inspector, provides First-Class home and property inspection services for First-Class clients throughout the greater Los Angeles area. President and principal inspector, Craig Funabashi is a Master Inspector and has been inspecting properties since 1996. He has personally performed more than 3500 residential and commercial property inspections to date, and is a distinguished member of the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Call (310) 371-9494 or go to: www.property-professor.com