Seller's Guide to the Inspection Process
Scottsdale Arizona Realtor Randi Christel

Seller's Guide to the Inspection Process

Seller's Guide to the Inspection ProcessThe standard real estate purchase contract used in the State of Arizona contains a pro vision that allows the buyer to physically inspect the property being purchased, either by himself or by a professional inspector or inspectors within the first ten days of acceptance of the contract by the seller. It is the seller’s obligation to provide the buyer access to the property during this ten day inspection period for whatever inspections the buyer requires.

Below is a list of common types of inspections.

Structural Pest Control

  • To determine any active infestation by wood destroying organisms.
  • To determine whether there is any earth to wood contact, cellulose debris or faulty grades on the property.

In the event that there are wood destroying organisms or secondary issues with regard to the property, generally these issues must be addressed prior to the close of escrow and if the termite company that did the initial report does not do the repairs, then the property must be reinspected by a termite company and a clear report deposited into escrow, prior to the close of escrow.

Physical Inspection

  • This inspection can encompass inspection of the roof, plumbing, electrical, heating and any other accessible area of the property.
  • A detailed report or reports will be written by the inspector or inspectors with recommendations for repairs, and same will be delivered to the buyer. Subsequently the buyer will request of the seller any repairs that the buyer wishes the seller to be responsible for, which, if the seller agrees to the repairs, would be completed prior to the close of escrow.

Other Common Inspections Might Include

  • Well and Septic
  • Hazardous materials
  • Chimney
  • Heating and Cooling
  • Survey
  • Zoning and Building permit compliance
  • Structural Engineering
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Home Warranties

Home Warranties are insurance policies designed to protect a seller during the listing period and a buyer for one year after the close of escrow, against repair costs for mechanical systems and molar appliances. The cost of a home warranty policy is a one time fee which either the buyer or the seller can pay at the close of escrow and which is renewable annually. There ore a variety of home warranty companies and plans. The plans vary according to the optional coverage chosen by the insured which might include, but not be limited to heating, air conditioning, dishwasher, washer, dryer, refrigerator, garbage disposals, and pool or pool and spa equipment.

A few of the benefits of a home warranty are listed as follows:

  • Replacement or repair of molar or minor plumbing, heating or electrical problems during the policy period at a nominal service fee per incident.
  • A full network of qualified technicians at your service.
  • Protection of your budget against unexpected expenses for repairs or replacements of systems in your home for the first year of ownership (or subsequent years if renewed).

The above information was provided all or in part courtesy of Capital Title Agency.