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FAQs
At Home Wise Services, Inc., we do our best to answer all of your questions. Below you will find a list of what we believe are the most frequently asked questions. If you have any questions that have not been answered below, do not hesistate to contact us.
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A typical inspection takes approximately 2 1/2 to 4 hours to complete. This can vary, given the current condition and size of the home, the accessibility of mechanical systems, and so on. As a courtesy to sellers, we recommend that they be informed of the timeframe in a pre-purchase home inspection situation. Remember, this is a very thorough examination of the home and its systems. We do not want to rush so we don't miss anything of importance!
We inspect all of the major structural and mechanical systems of the home. These include the Roof, Attic, Exterior, Structure, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Insulation, and Interior. Our goal is to identify any existing major problems that would affect a typical buyer's decision to purchase.
All of our fees are based on square footage and amenities of the home. We ask that you call with the information and we can provide you with the fee immediately. If you are comparing home inspection firms, the fee charged should not be the deciding factor unless the level of service offered is identical. Remember, you are considering a major purchase and your choice of home inspector should be based on getting the best value and experience, not just the best price.
- Complete home inspection conducted by an experienced professional.
- Comprehensive written home inspection report.
- Technical support for as long as you own your home.
Definitely. We encourage you to attend. The inspection is a valuable learning experience for most homebuyers.
You don't have to take notes during the inspection. We will document everything in a written report. It's much better to follow the inspector through, listening to his comments to make sure you understand. It's also a great opportunity to ask questions and to clarify anything that confuses you.
Absolutely! You may want to bring some questions that you have regarding the home. You should also feel free to stop the inspector and ask questions as you go. If the inspector's comments or explanations are not clear, please ask for clarification.
You should dress comfortably and be prepared to spend roughly 2 1/2 - 4 hours walking through the home with the inspector. You won't have to climb on the roof or go into the attic, so your clothes won't get dirty.
Although we encourage you to attend, we do recommend to be mindful of the the sellers and the time involved. Remember, this is a technical evaluation, and you will be interacting with the inspector — the fewer distractions, the better.
You do receive a written report. It would be unfair to ask you to remember all of the things we cover during a home inspection. The report includes a summary of the condition of the home and details on all the major systems of the home. It is delivered within 24 hours after the inspection.
No. Our goal is to report on the condition of the house, indicating potential repairs and expenses. Ultimately, it is your decision as to whether or not you buy the house. The home inspection is very important but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Only you know all of the factors at play. Your real estate professional can help you there.
A home inspection is a professional opinion based on less-than-complete information. It's a little like getting a check-up from your doctor. It improves your odds of good health but there is no guarantee or warranty. Some problems can only be discovered by living in a house; they cannot be discovered during a home inspection. For example, some shower stalls leak when people use the shower but don't leak when you simply turn on the shower. Some roofs and basements only leak when specific weather conditions exist. Some problems will only be discovered when carpets are lifted, furniture is moved or finishes are removed. As such, we cannot and do not offer a warranty on the house. Home warranty programs are available from others. We would be happy to help you contact a warranty company.
We currently have one full-time professional available to perform inspections. Larry has been conducting professional home inspections since 1997. He is very familiar with the area, the different type of constsruction in Northeast Florida and has an extensive construction background. Annual continuing education is also a part of Larry's professional accountability.
Larry Falasco earned his Home Inspection Credentials from HomePro in Falls Church, VA in 1997. Larry obtained his Florida State Certified Residential Contractors License in 1999 (CRC058147). He has been an upstanding member in the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI #201371) since 1997 as well. Larry has participated in all annual continuing education. He obtained his Florida Home Inspectors License in 2011 (HI2779), when this profession first became accredited by the State. Larry has performed over tens of thousands of home and building inspections over the course of his career. His knowledge and experience are reinforced by the more than the 200 inspections he continues to perform every year.
Larry is a member in good-standing with the American Society of Home Inspectiors (ASHI). ASHI Member #201371.
Home Wise Services, Inc. is ready to serve you quickly. However, when the sale of a home is conditional on the results of a home inspection, we recommend that you allow at least three days to arrange for the service.