Military BGRS Home Inspection
A professional home inspection is a comprehensive assessment of a residential property conducted by a qualified inspector. During the inspection, the inspector systematically evaluates various components and systems of the home, including its structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), roofing, and insulation.
The primary goal of a professional home inspection is to identify any existing issues, potential problems, safety concerns, or areas requiring maintenance or repairs. The inspector provides an unbiased evaluation based on industry standards and best practices, offering insights into the overall condition and functionality of the property.
Following the inspection, the inspector typically provides a detailed report documenting their findings, including any deficiencies and recommendations for remediation or improvement. This report serves as a valuable tool for the client, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the purchase, sale, or maintenance of the property. Ultimately, a professional home inspection helps protect the interests of the client and ensures the integrity and safety of the residential property.
Selecting a Home Inspector
When selecting a home inspector, several qualifications are essential to ensure you receive a thorough and reliable inspection:
- Certification and Licensing: Look for inspectors who are certified by reputable organizations such as the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), or similar local associations. Additionally, ensure they hold any required state or provincial licenses.
- Experience: Choose an inspector with extensive experience in the field. A seasoned inspector will have encountered a wide range of issues and will be better equipped to identify potential problems accurately.
- Knowledge: Verify that the inspector has a comprehensive understanding of residential construction, building codes, and systems within the home, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural components.
- Professionalism: Look for inspectors who adhere to a strict code of ethics and professional standards. They should conduct themselves with integrity, honesty, and professionalism throughout the inspection process.
- Insurance: Ensure the inspector carries Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance and General Liability insurance to protect you in case of errors or omissions during the inspection.
- Continuing Education: Seek inspectors who actively participate in continuing education and stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
- References and Reviews: Check for testimonials, reviews, and references from past clients to gauge the inspector’s reputation and satisfaction levels.
By considering these qualifications, you can confidently select a home inspector who will provide a thorough and reliable assessment of your prospective property.
Is Home Inspection Paid For?
Is my Home Inspection Paid For?
Yes, your Home Inspection is covered by Brookfield when you are relocating due to posting. If you use a registered Third Party Provider they will bill Brookfield for services provided. Read section below which is directly from
Brookfields Document regarding TPSP’s.
Benefits of Using a TPSP
Third-Party Service Providers (TPSP) and Brookefield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) approved Realtors are service suppliers who have registered with BGRS and provide specialized services such as real estate services, appraisals, property inspection and Lawyers services for your HHT, across Canada. Home Inspectors for example have to provide proof of Certification prior to listing in Directory.
Your Brookfield Approved Home Inspector will bill BGRS directly for cost of Home Inspection.
Third Party Service Providers
During your move, you might need to use the services of an appraiser, home inspector, lawyer, notary, realtor/broker®, or rental search agent. Each of these professionals is considered a TPSP. Each TPSP you select must be at arm’s length (meaning the transaction is between non-related individuals) in order for the services provided to be eligible for reimbursement.
Through your move profile, you will have access to our TPSP Directory: a list of all TPSPs which have agreed to the ceiling rates and service delivery standards of the CAF contract. Familiarize yourself with the ceiling rate for each TPSP so you can clearly communicate this to them when you engage them for their services.
You can select any TPSP from this Directory. If you select a non-participating TPSP, you’ll be responsible for covering any expenses that exceed the set ceiling rates.
Whether you select a participating or non-participating TPSP, it is your responsibility to ensure that your TPSP is aware that you are a relocating CAF member and, therefore, their services and fees should align with the Relocation Directive and CAF contract. TPSPs not in our Directory can join at any time by completing the TPSP registration online.
Negotiation Tool
Negotiating the Price of House
After a home inspection is completed, the inspector will issue a report. This report can then become a powerful negotiation tool for the buyer. Depending on the findings of the report, the buyer might be able to use it to negotiate a
better deal on the home. If many repairs are needed, they can try to negotiate a lower price. Alternatively, they may negotiate an amendment to the contract requiring certain repairs be completed before they close on the property. Many potential buyers will share the Home Inspection Report with Sellers agent to aid in the negotiations. (a picture is worth a thousand words) When buying a home, you want to have as many advantages as possible, and doing a home inspection can give you just that.
How Much to Negotiate the House Price?
Buyers often offer 5- to 10% below the asking price when negotiating a house they want to purchase. But depending on many factors such as the condition of the property, the current market, the financial situation of the seller, the time the property has been on the market, any changes in the neighborhood, your payment conditions, contingencies, etc, you can certainly offer between 10 to 20% below the asking price and are like to get a positive response from the seller.
In a buyer’s market, you can expect to start the negotiation up to 20 % of the house price as sellers are not getting many offers and won’t let go of a potential buyer so easily.
Negotiation Tip
So you’re a big fan of the place. Once you’ve crossed the threshold, resist the urge to jump for excitement. Play hard to get, otherwise, the seller (and their agent) will assume you’re willing to pay a higher price. While being negative or unpleasant about a property is never acceptable, try to restrain yourself from being overly excited. If the home has an evident flaw (that isn’t a deal-breaker for you), such as a small kitchen or an out-of-date bathroom, don’t be hesitant to point it out tactfully and recommend that your offer be adjusted to reflect it.
WHY DO SOME SELLERS OVERPRICE THEIR HOMES?
To most people, their home is their most valuable possession. It is the place where they have built a lifetime of memories. They have also invested a lot of time and emotion into making their home into what it is. It is not surprising that when pricing a home, some sellers tend to give it more value than market price.
Many sellers also have the misconception that pricing their home higher will yield a higher sale price.
In looking at homes for sale, you may find a house you love that seems a bit too high. You may discover necessary repairs that would bring your expenses up. In this type of situation, you will need to do negotiations with the seller or the listing agent.
In order to have a good strategy, you can start by understanding why the property is overpriced so you can submit a reasonable counter-offer.
Below are 5 tell-tale signs that a property may be overpriced.
- DAYS IT HAS BEEN ON THE MARKET
A house that has been sitting on the market too long may be overpriced. This is particularly true if the house is in good condition, in a good location, and has no issues that would prevent a sale. If a property has showings but no offers, the asking price may be too high. - NOT COMPARABLE TO NEIGHBORHOOD PRICES
Homes in any neighborhood would be varied and apple to apple comparison can be tricky. However, a home that is priced much higher than other properties of a similar size and features may be overpriced. - LOW OFFERS
If offers have been made on the house but are much lower than asking price, it is a good indicator of an overpriced home. Most buyers work with experienced real estate agents who work with comparative data about properties that have sold in the area. They advise their clients and help negotiate the sale price. Considerably low offers may indicate that the asking price is too high. - ASKING PRICE MUCH HIGHER THAN ASSESSED VALUE
The tax valuation of a home is not really related to market price but if asking price is much too high than the tax assessment, it may be overpriced. This is relevant particularly if no improvements have been made to the home since the last assessment. - PRICEY ADD-ONS
Some sellers would put in pricey add-ons like a designer kitchen in order to bring up the sale price. In most cases, expensive add-ons don’t make the house worth a lot more money. It always depends on the neighborhood and market prices.If you suspect that a house you are interested in is overpriced, you should try to bring down the price with proactive negotiations. In some cases, an owner may agree to a lower sale price to sell a property.
Scope of Inspection
Experience the most comprehensive home inspection service geared towards Military & RCMP personnel who are relocating. Our inspections adhere to strict Home Inspection Standards, ensuring thoroughness and transparency.
We recommend reviewing our Scope of Inspection to fully grasp the inclusive nature of our services. Beginning with a detailed assessment of the roof, encompassing not only its surface but also the chimney, ventilation system, and more, we meticulously inspect every aspect of your home, both externally and internally.
Moving through the property, we assess the exterior and interior components, from the structure to the heating and cooling systems, electrical and plumbing systems, interior finishes, insulation, ventilation, and more. Our detailed inspection report provides comprehensive descriptions of each system, along with recommended improvements, aiding in prioritizing maintenance and planning for your future in the home. Moreover, our commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the inspection – we offer ongoing support, allowing you to reach out with any questions at no additional cost for as long as you own the home.
Understanding the scope of a home inspection is crucial for clients for several reasons:
- Expectation Management: Knowing what the home inspection will cover helps clients manage their expectations. They’ll understand what issues may or may not be addressed during the inspection process, preventing any surprises later on.
- Decision Making: Clients can make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the purchase of the property based on the findings of the inspection. If they understand the scope, they’ll know what aspects of the property will be assessed and what potential issues might be uncovered.
- Budget Planning: Understanding the scope allows clients to plan their budget accordingly. If certain systems or areas of the home are not covered by the inspection but need attention, clients can allocate funds for additional inspections or repairs.
- Negotiation Power: Armed with knowledge of the inspection scope, clients can negotiate with sellers more effectively. They can address any discrepancies between the condition of the property and their expectations, potentially leading to a more favorable outcome in terms of repairs or price adjustments.
- Post-Purchase Planning: Clients can use the inspection report to prioritize repairs and maintenance tasks after purchasing the property. Understanding what was assessed during the inspection helps them focus on the most critical areas first.
- Legal Protection: Understanding the scope of the inspection ensures that clients are aware of any limitations or exclusions. This knowledge can protect them legally if they need to address undisclosed issues or discrepancies in the future.
In summary, clarity about the scope of a home inspection empowers clients to make informed decisions, plan effectively, and protect their interests throughout the home buying process.
Pre-Purchase Home Inspection
We aim to enhance your home-buying journey with valuable insights and information. Our thorough evaluation covers major structures and systems, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, heating, and electrical components. We encourage your participation during the inspection to discuss findings and ask questions, providing an opportunity for valuable tips on home care and maintenance, such as changing furnace filters and emergency procedures for water, gas, and electricity.
Following your pre-purchase inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report serving as your long-term guide. This comprehensive document not only describes the condition of house components but also offers insights into necessary improvements and their timing. Rely on our expert knowledge and experience to provide unbiased, professional assessments, empowering you to make informed decisions when buying your new home.
Buyers Home Inspection
In a competitive real estate market, many buyers find themselves making offers without conditions to stand out to sellers. However, foregoing an inspection can leave buyers unaware of their new home’s condition. A post-purchase inspection provides crucial insights to bridge this knowledge gap.
We meticulously assess your new home’s major structures and systems, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, heating, and electrical components. We invite your participation during the inspection, allowing you to review findings and ask questions in real-time.
Upon completion, you’ll receive a comprehensive inspection report detailing the condition of all home systems, along with recommended improvements and areas requiring immediate attention. This post-purchase inspection aims to mitigate investment risks by providing a clear understanding of your home’s condition, helping you plan for future expenses and avoid unforeseen financial burdens.
Pre-Listing Home Inspection
A pre-listing inspection can streamline the selling process, boosting your home’s appeal to potential buyers, aiding in property assessment, and highlighting areas needing repair. In a competitive real estate market, it also minimizes the risk of buyers walking away due to time constraints for an inspection.
We meticulously assess your home’s key structures and systems, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, heating, and electrical components. We encourage your participation during the inspection to discuss findings and address any queries you may have.
Upon completion, you’ll receive a comprehensive inspection report detailing the condition of all home systems, along with recommended improvements or necessary repairs. This report equips you with valuable information to address any issues before listing your home, enhancing its market appeal and streamlining the selling process.
WETT Inspections
What is a WETT Inspection ?
A WETT inspection is an evaluation of wood-burning systems within a home. WETT stands for “Wood Energy Technology Transfer,” and a WETT inspection is typically conducted by a certified WETT inspector. The purpose of the
inspection is to assess the safety and compliance of wood-burning appliances, such as fireplaces, wood stoves, and chimneys.
During a WETT inspection, the inspector examines various components of the wood-burning system to ensure they meet safety standards and local building codes. This includes checking for proper installation, clearances from combustible materials, adequate ventilation, and overall condition.
Here are some key aspects covered in a WETT inspection:
- Appliance Installation: The inspector examines how the wood-burning appliance is installed, including clearances to combustible materials, proper ventilation, and adherence to manufacturer’s specifications.
- Chimney and Flue: The condition and integrity of the chimney and flue system are assessed to ensure they are structurally sound and free from obstructions or damage.
- Firebox and Combustion Chamber: The inspector checks the firebox and combustion chamber for signs of damage or deterioration that could compromise safety.
- Clearances: Clearances to combustible materials, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, are measured to ensure they meet safety requirements.
- Chimney Liner: If applicable, the condition of the chimney liner is evaluated to ensure it is in good shape and functioning properly.
- Overall Safety: The inspector assesses the overall safety of the wood-burning system and provides recommendations for any necessary repairs or improvements to bring it into compliance with safety standards.
After completing the inspection, the WETT inspector typically provides a detailed report outlining their findings, including any issues identified and recommendations for remediation. This report can be valuable for homeowners, prospective buyers, insurance companies, and regulatory authorities in assessing the safety and compliance of the wood-burning system.
Why I Need a WETT Inspection
A home buyer may need a WETT inspection for several reasons:
- Safety Assurance: A WETT inspection ensures that the wood-burning appliances in the home, such as fireplaces or wood stoves, are installed and functioning safely. It helps buyers identify any potential hazards related to
these systems, such as chimney obstructions, improper installation, or deteriorating components that could pose a fire risk. - Compliance Verification: Local building codes and regulations often require wood-burning appliances to meet certain standards for safety and environmental protection. A WETT inspection verifies whether the wood-burning systems in the home comply with these regulations, providing peace of mind to the buyer and ensuring they won’t face any compliance issues after purchasing the property.
- Insurance Requirements: Some insurance companies may require a WETT inspection before providing coverage for a property with wood-burning appliances. This is because these systems can pose a higher risk of fire if not properly maintained or installed. Having a WETT inspection report that confirms the safety and compliance of the wood-burning systems can help buyers secure insurance coverage for the property.
- Negotiation Tool: If the WETT inspection uncovers any issues with the wood-burning appliances or chimney, the buyer can use this information as a negotiation tool with the seller. They may request repairs or upgrades to be made before proceeding with the purchase, or negotiate a lower purchase price to account for the cost of addressing the issues identified in the inspection report.
- Future Planning: Even if there are no immediate issues found during the WETT inspection, the report can still be valuable for the buyer’s future planning. It provides an overview of the condition of the wood-burning systems and any recommended maintenance or repairs, helping the buyer prioritize and budget for these expenses in the future.
In summary, a WETT inspection is important for home buyers to ensure the safety, compliance, and insurability of wood-burning appliances in the property they intend to purchase. It provides valuable information that can influence their decision-making process and help them avoid potential risks and liabilities associated with these systems.