<span class="hide-blog-title">The Inspector</span>By NPI, Inc.https://npiweb.com/Blog/PostsSetting the Stage for Your Home Sale: DIY Home-Staging Tipshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1562/setting-the-stage-for-your-home-sale-diy-home-staging-tipsCleaning Tips,DIY,Home MaintenanceMon, 27 Nov 2023 18:53:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">SETTING THE STAGE FOR YOUR HOME SALE: DIY HOME-STAGING TIPS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 27, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bedroom">bedroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/windows">windows</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a></p> <p>When putting your home on the market, you obviously want to get as much out of the sale as you can. And ideally, you’d like the process to run quickly. Throughout the years, agents, interior designers, and other real estate professionals have searched for the best strategies to make residential transactions move as smoothly as possible, and what they’ve discovered is the fine art of <em>home staging</em>.</p> <p>Home staging is the act of redecorating, cleaning, and designing a home so that buyers can more easily imagine themselves living there. Real estate agents are professionals at accentuating the strengths of a home while bringing any flaws into perspective, and home staging is there to reinforce these efforts through what potential buyers actually see and experience during a tour.</p> <p>According to a National Association of REALTORS (NAR) Research Group’s <a class="color-secondary" href="https://cdn.nar.realtor//sites/default/files/documents/2023-profile-of-home-staging-03-30-2023.pdf" target="_blank">2023 Study</a>, 81% of buyers’ agents said that home staging made it easier to visualize the property as their future home. Despite this, many home sellers skip this step in order to save on costs. Since the largest investment most people will make is their home, home staging is well worth the cost and time commitment.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3 Options for Home-Staging</span><br /> Home sellers can go in a few different directions when planning to stage their homes, and each has their own strengths and weaknesses:</p> <ul> <li><strong>The Do-It-Yourself Option</strong><br /> By far the most cost-effective, albeit demanding option is going the DIY route. There are tons of things that can be done to stage a home better which sellers can easily implement quickly and at a low cost, However, due to limited experience in real estate, it is possible that these quick changes can do more harm than good without expert advice. Still, depending on comfort and home maintenance experience, sellers should always look at doing some DIY home staging.</li> <li><strong>Ask Your Agent</strong><br /> Real Estate Agents know what buyers are looking for and what might turn them away from a purchase. For staging a home, sellers should draw from their agents as much as they can and lean on their perspectives when possible. Some agents may even offer up things like alternative furniture to borrow, welcoming artwork, and other resources to help present the home in its best light.</li> <li><strong>Hire a Professional Home Stager</strong><br /> Finally, for the most hands-off approach, sellers should look into hiring a professional home stager that works in their area. Minor repairs, temporary decorations, and new interior furniture orientation all designed to ensure selling a home at its highest possible value can all be expected when working with these servicers at reasonable rates.</li> </ul> <p>All of these options will improve a seller's experience while their house is on the market, but let’s tackle some of the most effective DIY home staging tips for those looking to maximize their ROI!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Target the High Impact Areas</span><br /> The first thing to keep in mind when thinking about staging a home for sale is that you don’t have to fix every single problem you have with your property. The best thing that a homeowner can do is to focus on the “high impact” areas of their house, in other words, the places that most influence a buyer’s decision on whether to make an offer. Within the home, this means the living room, the kitchen, the master bedroom, and (to a lesser extent) the dining room. If these areas are all attractive and inviting, offers are bound to come quickly!</p> <p>In general, one change that may be worth making throughout these areas is to switch from carpet to hardwood flooring wherever possible. Carpets can get worn and stained, and it’s often replaced or removed when new homeowners move in anyway. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, have widespread appeal, and that’s what home staging is really all about. Remove aspects of the home that might turn buyers away, and replace them with neutral or commonly preferred alternatives.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make Your Available Space Look Usable</span><br /> Next, sellers should always look to accentuate the strengths of their homes, and one way that they often miss out on this is by masking their homes' true size. Large or clunky furniture that fills up a room too much can make a home feel cramped and small. Additionally, rooms that serve more than one purpose (like a laundry room / exercise room) can make a house feel like it’s limited. Switch out that huge couch for one that shows off the floor space, and have each room focus on one purpose in particular to make it clear that potential buyers won’t struggle for breathing room.</p> <p>Next, homeowners need a lot of storage, but junk rooms do little to impress during open houses. Clear out any finished areas (including attics and basements!) and transform them into temporary offices or reading nooks to emphasize the possibilities. Even if that’s not how these spaces were used, the point of staging is to get the buyer’s mind thinking about what they could do with the home. Storage areas, unfortunately, don’t provide much inspiration.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">De-Personalize and Remove Controversy</span><br /> The best homes become a reflection of the people that live within them, but the fact is that whoever moves in next will have their own style preferences. This means that, although you might have loved your lime green wallpaper, it might be wise to take that down and repaint your living room with some neutral colors. A well-staged home should be like a blank canvas, not a finished work of art where buyers struggle to imagine different options.</p> <p>It’s for this same reason that agents recommend removing family photos, hobbyist equipment, and toys before showings. All of these are fabulous reflections of whoever lives in the house, but buyers don’t want to see someone else’s home - they want to see their potential home. Features that are distinct and remind buyers of what a home is distracts them from what the home could be in the future.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Clean! Clean! Clean!</span><br /> Finally - and this might be the most important advice to apply if you weren’t already planning on it - sellers should focus primarily on making their home as clean and fresh as possible! Bathrooms tend to become neglected overtime, windows need to be washed to let light in, and odd lingering odors should be addressed during the home staging process.</p> <p>For the exterior of the home, consider using a power washer as a quick way to vastly improve curb appeal without investing in a fresh coat of paint. Additionally, it can be a smart investment to purchase a new welcome mat and prioritize the front pathway. A successfully staged home will be fresh, inviting, and full of possibilities. Sellers who opt not to skip on the easy steps like home staging will see this small investment pay dividends after they close.</p> <p><em>If you’re looking to sell, have you considered ordering a Pre-Listing Inspection? Buyers who know a property’s condition upfront tend to reach agreements much quicker! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Contact your local NPI home inspector</a> for a quote today.</em></p> 1562The Keys to Assembling a Great House Flipping Teamhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1534/the-keys-to-assembling-a-great-house-flipping-teamDIY,Home Inspection,Home MaintenanceMon, 04 Sep 2023 20:53:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">THE KEYS TO ASSEMBLING A GREAT HOUSE FLIPPING TEAM</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> September 4, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home-seller</a></p> <p>Some of the best must-see reality television today comes from house-flipping shows: seasoned real estate experts find appealing residential properties or fixer-uppers, then transform them into dream homes for a tidy profit. It’s no mystery why these shows are so popular either, as real estate window-shoppers, amateur handymen, and people with an entrepreneurial spirit are all drawn to the home renovation genre. With that said, the average Joe who might be interested in jumping into the house-flipping world should take pause due to the considerable learning curve involved.</p> <p>Anyone who hosts a show on HGTV is going to have vast experience and a top-notch team behind them that can make house flipping look far easier than it really is. To break into the house-flipping world successfully, a person would either need broad experience in real estate and home improvement or (much more realistically) a great team to lean on. If you’re looking into house flipping for supplemental income or a career shift, here’s some of the essential traits you’ll need on your team.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is House Flipping?</span><br /> Before jumping into the deep end, let’s review a few important definitions. Namely, what is house flipping anyway? “House flipping” is a term best understood as the act of purchasing a house with the intent purpose of improving and reselling in a short amount of time for profit. This can be done with old or neglected homes that need major TLC, or it can be done with properties that could simply benefit from updating or trend-chasing.</p> <p>While many home improvement shows depict full-time home flippers making consistent investments that lead to impressive profits on resale, real-world flippers recognize the risk-reward nature of these projects. Too many naive, would-be real estate investors might attempt to flip a home, only to discover that they lack the know-how, the capital, and the insight to make the right choices. The good news is that this isn’t the case for everyone, and it doesn’t need to be! Success in this field starts with patience and the right background experience.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Who Do You Need On Your Team?</span></p> <p><span style="color:#00685e;"><strong><em>1. The Practical One</em></strong></span></p> <p>The financial specialist probably isn’t the flashiest or most exciting position on a home renovation crew, but they are the most important. While theory-crafting how to quickly upgrade a home can be exciting, someone has to be able to determine how much the project will cost and whether the anticipated profits warrant the investment.</p> <p>The core principle of house flipping starts with the 70% rule, which dictates that a buyer shouldn’t pay more than 70% of a home’s ARV (or after-repair value). In other words, someone needs to crunch the numbers of how much an expected renovation will cost, how much a home should re-sell for, and factor in things like mortgage payments, property taxes, and other recurring costs until the house can be placed back on the market. On top of all of this, funding can be a concern for those who don’t have a lot of liquid funds. According to real estate data experts at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.attomdata.com/news/market-trends/flipping/attom-year-end-2022-u-s-home-flipping-report/" target="_blank">ATTOM</a>, nearly two-thirds of all home purchases with the intent to flip were cash-only offers due in part to how reluctant many banks are to provide loans for risky investments like house flipping.</p> <p>Teams that have a good financial expert in the fold can advise on realistic investments based on budget and will know to wait for the right home opportunity, rather than jump at the first interesting listing that could be more trouble than it’s worth. Whether this is a former accountant, or just someone who is great with numbers, an organized bookkeeper is a must for every house-flipping crew.</p> <p><strong><span style="color:#00685e;"><em>2. The Real Estate Market Expert</em></span></strong></p> <p>Next up is the person that is up to date on what sells, where the sought-after homes are located, and what the local market is projected to do during the timeframe of renovations. Ideally, this person would have extensive experience working in the market, coordinating purchases and sales as a real estate agent.</p> <p>Agents tend to have insider knowledge within the area they work, and will more likely have an accurate pulse on a local market to help make determinations on which homes are a smart purchase and which might be a bigger job than anticipated. Additionally, once a project is completed, the task of marketing and selling a renovated home can be extremely difficult without the help of a skilled real estate agent. Since time is always a factor with house flipping, having a reliable agent contact is vital when it comes to closing quickly and securing the best return on investment.</p> <p><span style="color:#00685e;"><strong><em>3. The Home Renovation Extraordinaire</em></strong></span></p> <p>A large portion of house flipping involves the actual renovation portion of the project. Because of this, many flippers have a background in things like contracting, plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry. “Sweat equity” refers to putting actual labor into a project, beyond logistical coordination and negotiation. Without this form of investment done right, a home flip is dead in the water.</p> <p>When hiring for contractors and other skilled laborers, it’s important to find people who can be trusted to do a good job and give informed, reliable advice. In addition, if the renovation work can be accomplished without hiring out, a considerable amount of the overall budget can be recovered immediately. This doesn’t mean that amateur handymen should attempt to renovate a house on their own, however. Jumping into a home flipping project with limited experience is a sure way to make costs rapidly inflate until it may be time to cut your losses altogether.</p> <p><span style="color:#00685e;"><strong><em>4. The Details and Crisis Manager</em></strong></span></p> <p>Speaking of cutting losses. An investor never wants to find a great flipping opportunity, investing time, energy, and funds, only to discover that a major issue means that repairs will be much more expensive than previously calculated. Otherwise exciting projects can be considerably derailed by discovering things like mold, wood-destroying organisms (such as termites or carpenter ants), or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/home-features-that-ward-off-radon-a-guide-for-homebuyers">a high concentration of radon</a>.</p> <p>The beautiful thing about these home-flipping shows is that viewers get to watch houses get transformed and reach their full potential. This is why discovering a major issue can be so crushing beyond just the financial loss, and the truth is that these experiences could have been avoided with the right experience or assistance.</p> <p>People with a keen eye, and in-depth experience on some of the more costly home defects are important for home flipping because their input is the difference between catching larger repairs and being surprised with them later on. Home flipping is said to be a risky business, but partnering with residential home inspectors, commercial property inspectors, or other people that have a reliable track record of being thorough and detailed will help reduce the uncertainty inherent in these projects.</p> <p><em>NPI’s nation-wide network of professional home inspectors receive world-class training and is backed by decades of experience. To schedule your next home inspection, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">call NPI</a> before you buy.</em></p> 1534Does a House Have to “Pass” Inspection to be Sold?https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1501/does-a-house-have-to-pass-inspection-to-be-soldHome Inspection,Home MaintenanceMon, 26 Jun 2023 19:54:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">DOES A HOUSE HAVE TO "PASS" INSPECTION TO BE SOLD?</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> June 26, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintanance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a></p> <p>First-time homebuyers face a tall task when they enter into the real estate market. Balancing their budget and finding a neighborhood that fits their family’s needs is enough of a challenge. Learning how to negotiate a fair price and deciding whether their new home is worthy of what is likely the largest investment they’ll ever make can certainly be intimidating. Because of this, sellers and buyers alike may dread waiting for the results of the home inspection with the thought that the report could derail their deal.</p> <p>The truth is, a home inspection is not a pass/fail diagnosis of a property. A home doesn’t have to “pass” an inspection in order for a sale to take place, but rather, a home inspection is an essential overview of a home’s condition at the time of the inspection. No home is perfect, and buyers should always be prepared to discover the maintenance needs of their new homes. To get a better idea of what a home inspection report is and how it prepares buyers for homeownership, let’s discuss the essentials of home inspections.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is a Home Inspection?</span><br /> A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of a home’s key features. Home inspectors are professionals at identifying and explaining the condition of a home at the time of the home inspection in order to provide both the home buyer and home seller a clear picture of the property. One particular benefit of a home inspector’s evaluation is that they are an unbiased third-party. They are not there to favor the buyer or the seller. Instead, a home inspector’s job is to leave the most thorough and accurate report they are able, while in compliance with industry standards of practice.</p> <p>Home inspectors focus on the features that are considered the “cornerstones” of a home. In short, these are the features that are both the most important for safety, and tend to be the most costly when it comes to repairs.</p> <p>The four cornerstones systems of the home are:</p> <ol> <li>Structural</li> <li>Roofing</li> <li>Mechanical</li> <li>Water Management</li> </ol> <p>Many issues in these systems can end up adversely affecting other systems, leading to extensive damage that could have been avoided. With a home inspection report in hand, a new homeowner is equipped with the knowledge necessary to develop their long-term maintenance plan with confidence, rather than rely on guesswork or waiting for a breakdown to finally spur on action.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Does a Home Inspection Help a New Homeowner?</span><br /> Oftentimes, buyers and sellers concerned about “passing” an inspection are likely dealing with a home that could be considered a “fixer-upper.” Homes that need a little love to reach their potential can be a very rewarding purchase, but buyers should be prepared for the work that goes into the home improvement process. With their inspection report, buyers can make an educated decision on whether they are prepared to handle the maintenance issues that come with buying an older or neglected home.</p> <p>If extensive repairs are needed immediately, a buyer can use their inspection report to re-negotiate for a fair price or allow the seller to pay for some repairs. Aspects that may require quick action include water intrusion or the presence of mold, extreme roof damage, and the presence of pests such as Wood-Destroying Organisms (like termites).</p> <p>Homebuyers should never expect a home to be perfect! Every property requires an active, intentional home maintenance plan to keep everything functioning properly and looking good. For more information about how to handle a home that needs a little more work than the average home, check out some of our <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/the-best-advice-for-buying-a-fixer-upper-home">best advice for buying a Fixer-Upper</a>!</p> <p><em>To become an informed homebuyer, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">schedule</a> your home inspection with NPI today! National Property Inspections’ nation-spanning network of professional property inspectors are the best in the industry. Speak with your local NPI inspector today to learn more about how they can assist with any add-on services.</em></p> 1501How to Paint a Home’s Exterior (And When To Hire a Professional)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1472/how-to-paint-a-homes-exterior-and-when-to-hire-a-professionalDIY,Home MaintenanceMon, 13 Mar 2023 17:38:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO PAINT A HOME'S EXTERIOR (AND WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 13, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/spring">spring</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/summer">summer</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a></p> <p>There are so many reasons why people paint their homes. Maybe a room has gotten a bit stale and could use a new color, or nicks and scratches have been compounding the need for some serious TLC. A fresh coat of paint is a great way to solve these aesthetic issues, but paint has many other benefits for a home’s exterior! Good quality paint will help protect homes from the elements, insects, weather, and even wood rot.</p> <p>While a home should never be judged solely on its exterior, a tidy, attractive first impression is crucial for every home sale. Before getting too excited though, there are a few things every homeowner should know when considering a home exterior makeover.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pick the Perfect Day</span><br /> If you are set on painting your home’s exterior yourself, it’s important to understand what you’re in for. Painting a home is a big job that should start a long before you pick up a brush or roller. Unlike interior jobs, a successful day of painting a home’s exterior is heavily dependent on the weather.</p> <p>Direct sunlight will cause paint to dry more quickly, and certain types of paint will thicken in colder temperatures. In addition, things like moisture and dirt will cause your paint to struggle adhering to surfaces. Look ahead and find a day that isn’t too cold, humid, or windy (since gusts can carry dirt and other unwanted granules). It may be possible to paint effectively in the spring or even into the winter with the right equipment and types of paint, but most painting experts recommend sticking to summers and early autumn.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Prepare Your Exterior</span><br /> Once you’ve selected the perfect time and date for the job, you should plan to get your home’s exterior ready for the new coat. Depending on the condition of your siding and the current coat of paint, extensive scraping and power-brushing can remove dirt and other obstructive substances. Sanding your walls will help primers smoothly bond to the surface for the best painting experience.</p> <p>While cleaning off these surfaces, you should also plan on making minor repairs as you encounter them. Fill holes and repair the natural wear and tear that every home exterior is bound to experience throughout its lifetime. Importantly, keep caulk on hand so that you can eliminate air leaks and reduce chances of water penetration into your home.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Get to Work!</span><br /> Once those steps have been crossed off, you should be ready to paint! A word of caution: while many homeowners should be fully capable of doing a great job painting their home’s exterior, there are situations where bringing in a professional would be the wiser choice.</p> <p>Consider the size of your home. It may seem obvious, but multi-story buildings will require a ladder to complete a painting job. Homeowners will need ladders long enough, painting supplies with the appropriate reach, and they will need to be comfortable painting while high in the air. If you don’t have brushes, rollers, or stable ladders with enough reach, hiring a professional may end up saving you money on the job when all is said and done.</p> <p>Professionals will have experience reducing things like lap marks or brush marks that tend to be common with DIY jobs. Additionally, ambitious homeowners might attempt to purchase and operate a sprayer without sufficient operating knowledge in an effort to save time. Be realistic with your abilities, and the time that you can afford to invest into a job like this before making a final decision!</p> <p><em>Did you know that home inspectors are trained to identify issues on your home’s exterior, landscape, and your roof? To avoid letting minor issues grow into major maintenance problems, always schedule a home inspection with your home purchase! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule</a> a home maintenance inspection with your local NPI property inspector today!</em></p> 1472Property Inspections Are Reaching New Heights With Droneshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1469/property-inspections-are-reaching-new-heights-with-dronesHome Inspection,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 06 Mar 2023 21:07:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">PROPERTY INSPECTIONS ARE REACHING NEW HEIGHTS WITH DRONES</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 6, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a></p> <p>When students try to predict their future careers, they face a tall task. More likely than not, their future career probably doesn’t even exist yet! Technology is advancing at a breakneck pace, and as a result, workers are finding themselves in exciting new fields and industry standards are transforming every year. These new technologies give many professions brand new tools which allow them to accomplish things scarcely imagined in the past. In the property inspection industry, a tool that’s finding its way into many inspectors’ tool belts and may be revolutionizing the field is the drone.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are Drones?</span><br /> Drones are a short-hand name used when referring to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (or UAVs). This general term refers to an incredibly wide range of devices that have been used in various recreational activities, to capture footage for films, and even to perform reconnaissance in warfare. Though they started out as mostly a novelty when made available to the public, drones have quickly become a tool to aid various commercial enterprises.</p> <p>In the field of property inspections, drones are more lightweight than some of their industrial counterparts. Property inspectors are restricted to units weighing under 55 pounds, but most are under three pounds total. These drones typically consist of an “X”-shaped frame, with a propeller at each end, motors, a battery and interior components, and a high definition camera. With a fair bit of modular capabilities, drones can be adjusted to fit the needs of the inspector, or the unique needs of a particular job.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Do Property Inspectors Use Drones?</span><br /> During a home inspection, one of the most dangerous parts of the job is the roof inspection. Roofs have many hazards that may not be immediately visible, such as moss buildup, slippery debris like snow or leaves, or unaddressed fire damage. Oftentimes the greatest danger that roofs pose come from their steep grade. While property inspectors will always conduct as thorough an inspection as possible (within the scope of the job), a roof’s construction can limit an inspector’s view and pose unneeded risks.</p> <p>With drones, roof inspections are not only safer, they can be done with a level of detail that was previously impossible. Drone cameras collect high-resolution footage spanning the entirety of the roof and their maneuverability allows inspectors to capture angles and navigate to areas that may otherwise be inaccessible. Specially-designed lenses can be used to capture problems invisible to the human eye, and even chimneys can be more closely examined with sophisticated zooming features.</p> <p>Roof inspections are one of the most important actions that homeowners should take to ensure proper maintenance of their properties because roofs are one of the most expensive parts of a home to repair or replace. With drone footage, inspectors can find any issues with drainage, signs of leakage, and markers that may indicate a roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are The Requirements To Pilot A Drone Commercially?</span><br /> Drones are sophisticated tools, and commercial use of these tools comes with a set of requirements to ensure pilots are sufficiently responsible and capable. In short, property inspectors are held to a higher standard than a general, recreational drone pilot.</p> <p>Commercial drone operators must first obtain their Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), following mandates outlined by the Federation Aviation Administration (FAA). To become licensed, property inspectors take the IAKT, which is an aeronautical competency test administered by the FAA similar to ones taken for private pilot’s licenses. FAA-certified pilots are trained to evaluate weather conditions, operate within compliance of local airspace and flight restrictions, and perform consistent safety protocols before any drone flight.</p> <p>With the right experience and the right tools, property inspectors are moving their industry to a whole new level. The benefit for homeowners? Fewer surprises and more peace of mind!</p> <p><em>Interested in booking a home maintenance inspection? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact</a> your local NPI property inspector and schedule your next checkup today!</em></p> <meta property="og:image" content="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/2023/Drones.jpg?ver=rkF5hKQG0MuC9urt0jCTNw%3d%3d" />1469How Zoning Laws Affect Your Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1452/how-zoning-laws-affect-your-homeDIY,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 30 Jan 2023 20:30:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW ZONING LAWS AFFECT YOUR HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 30, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=Home-Maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a></p> <p>The prospect of becoming a new homeowner is undoubtedly an exciting one. Sure, there are plenty of stressful aspects to consider, but the possibilities floating in homebuyers’ minds can be nearly endless. However, there are some limiting factors that every homeowner should be aware of before starting any ambitious projects on their new properties.</p> <p>Some might be under the impression that they are free to do what they like on their own property, but local governments have long-held zoning laws meant to protect their citizens. To navigate the world of zoning laws with confidence, let’s break down what they are, and how they might change your next home improvement project.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Are Zoning Laws? </span><br /> Zoning laws have a long history stretching back to the early 20th-century as governments outlined the distinction between what property owners could do on their land and what local governments could do to limit those actions. In short, they are rules that dictate what sorts of buildings exist and where they are built.</p> <p>Over time, common standards were developed with the public in mind. For example, zoning laws restrict where industrial buildings can be established. Residential zones are largely protected from being near large production facilities where oil, gas, or dangerous machinery can become hazards for nearby families.</p> <p>These rules and regulations vary widely from municipality to municipality, sometimes with light regulations restricting sizes and shapes of buildings or separating commercial districts from residential districts. Other times, these zoning laws can be more restrictive, however, limiting a homeowner’s ability to add a detached garage, or even restricting the manner in which a yard is landscaped.</p> <p>It is important to note that zoning laws are distinct from rules supplied by a homeowner association (HOA). Zoning laws are backed by the local government, and breaking their ordinances could result in hefty fines.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Do They Mean For Homeowners?</span><br /> Homeowners should always familiarize themselves with their local zoning laws, especially before beginning any major renovations of their homes. Additionally, anyone in the market for a new home should consider these ordinances before making long-term plans for their prospective purchase.</p> <p>One of the most common situations that can get homeowners in trouble is when they proceed with any wide-scale additions without complying with height or spacing restrictions. Homes not only need to stay within the boundaries of their property, but local regulations likely define a specific setback distance between a structure and the property’s limits. In addition, attention towards total floor space compared to the lot size is often regulated.</p> <p>One type of addition that has been gaining popularity and that can raise a property’s overall value is an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). ADUs are independent residential structures that inhabit the same land as a single-family home. They can be attached or detached from the primary residence (sometimes then referred to as “DADUs”), but are often subject to a large number of restrictions based on zoning laws. Things like detached garages, pool houses, or additional rental properties are therefore often restricted on residential properties.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Can You Work With Zoning Laws?</span><br /> Whether you are a current homeowner or someone in the market for a new property, you should always check on the zoning laws in your area. While many additions and builds are likely restricted or regulated in some way, it would be incorrect to assume that your dream project is out of the question.</p> <p>All zoning laws, maps, and ordinances are freely available by law and can be obtained by reaching out to your local government. Oftentimes, this information can be obtained online through the city’s website.</p> <p>Should your planned addition be restricted, options are still available. Inquire about what permits or exceptions that you can apply for with your build in mind. Depending on your local zoning board, your odds of being granted a special permission should be good so long as safety standards are considered, along with state and national guidelines.</p> <p>Remember, zoning laws exist to protect communities and to unlock economic growth. In addition, all ordinances are made to be adaptable. When needed, reach out to an attorney or other expert for appropriate counsel.</p> <p><em>Every big project should start with a professional home inspection to ensure a safe and cost-effective strategy. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Start with NPI</a> before you buy.</em></p> 1452Home Features That Ward Off Radon: A Guide for Homebuyershttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1451/home-features-that-ward-off-radon-a-guide-for-homebuyersHome Inspection,SafetyMon, 23 Jan 2023 20:20:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOME FEATURES THAT WARD OFF RADON: A GUIDE FOR HOMEBUYERS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 23, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/radon">radon</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/foundation">foundation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/attic">attic</a></p> <p>If you aren’t familiar with radon yet, now is the time to learn about this potentially deadly natural gas. Outside of smoking, radon is the number one cause for lung cancer in the US and Canada. One thing that separates radon from other lethal gases, however, is its uniquely subtle nature. radon is an odorless and colorless gas, created through a natural process of uranium deterioration in the soil.</p> <p>Everyone is affected by radon gas, but outside and in the open air, radon has room to freely dilute down to non-hazardous levels. Too frequently though, homes can restrict the space that radon needs to dilute into these safe levels. For Canada, the World Health Organization warns that homes with over 200 Bq/m3 of radon are unsafe and require immediate radon remediation. In the US, this guideline is even lower, at 4 pCi/L (or ~150 Bq/m3). (<a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/radon-and-health" target="_blank">Check out the WHO’s recent coverage of the topic here</a>.)</p> <p>While not all homes experience the same average volume of radon dilution, the US’s Environmental Protection Agency has published a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/radon/epa-map-radon-zones" target="_blank">zone map</a> so that homebuyers can be aware of the overall trends in their area. Only a certified professional can be relied upon for an active radon test, ultimately. However, there are a few features in homes that naturally fend off high radon levels in the household.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Start With An Air Flow Layer</span><br /> Start With An Air Flow Layer The main way that radon builds up in homes is through dilution from soil beneath a home’s foundation. As the radon escapes into the air, gas that finds itself trapped indoors has more trouble breaking down. This concentration can get even worse in Winter months when homes are closed up even more than usual.</p> <p>For homebuyers or people looking to build, starting with a gas permeable layer is a great way to reduce radon levels in the future. Also known as an “air flow layer,” gas permeable layers usually consist of a level of gravel which allows gases from the soil like radon to move freely and break down just beneath the structure’s slab foundation.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Add Plastic Sheeting</span><br /> After the air flow layer, architects can add plastic sheeting as an additional layer. This layer ensures that the free flowing soil gases have more trouble entering into the home. The EPA recommends a layer consisting of polyethylene for structural stability and for the best containment potential.</p> <p>For homebuyers that are in the market, keep in mind that homes constructed with these safeguard layers should see lower radon levels and are much cheaper to incorporate during initial construction rather than after the fact. Especially in regions with higher potential for radon concentration, ask about these layers when purchasing your new home.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Incorporate A Venting Pipe</span><br /> If coordinated in advance, new constructions can incorporate a venting pipe that runs directly from the gravel layer through to the roof, allowing for a safe route for soil gas to escape and dissipate outside of the home.</p> <p>Three- to four-inch, gas-tight PVC pipe is commonly used in this system and easily incorporated into a new home’s blueprint. Again, while venting pipes can be installed in older homes, houses with a venting pipe already installed during construction should be a positive amenity to consider when shopping for a new home.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Seal and Caulk Any Cracks</span><br /> With a venting pipe installed and the new protective layers containing the radon gas in place, builders seal and caulk any foundational cracks that could be an easy entrance into the home. Foundation cracks come in all shapes and sizes. Especially in regions that are susceptible to dangerous radon levels, homeowners should regularly check in on the condition of their foundation.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Install An Electrical Junction Box</span><br /> Finally, a great feature for a radon-resistant house is an electrical junction box placed within the attic. This setup will give the option for homeowners to incorporate vent fans or other more intensive options should radon levels climb in the future. Some automation can even get incorporated into this type of system where vents are activated after passive systems detect increased readings.</p> <p>Be sure to test your home regularly for radon, whether you’re in a “safer” zone, or in a hazardous area. Homes with dangerous levels of radon have been discovered in every type of region throughout the US and Canada. Considering the potential impact on your or your family’s health, do not skip radon testing on your regular home maintenance checklist!</p> <p><em><a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector" target="_blank">Schedule your next radon test</a> with a trained expert from National Property Inspections. And for all of your property inspection needs, stick with NPI!</em></p> 1451Carson Dunlop Acquires National Property Inspections, Inc.https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1368/carson-dunlop-acquires-national-property-inspections-incHome InspectionMon, 04 Apr 2022 19:52:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">CARSON DUNLOP ACQUIRES NATIONAL PROPERTY INSPECTIONS, INC.</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> April 4, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a></p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6"> <p>National Property Inspections, Inc. is pleased to announce that Carson Dunlop has recently acquired our organization. In this exciting development, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.carsondunlop.com/" target="_blank">Carson Dunlop</a> and NPI are slated to become the preeminent provider of inspection and inspection-related services in North America.</p> <p>“I have long admired the strength of the Carson Dunlop brand and am thrilled to join forces to further accelerate growth at NPI,” said Roland Bates, founder of NPI. “I am extremely proud of the business we’ve built over the last 35 years and am enthusiastic about the future. Becoming part of Carson Dunlop will be an exciting new chapter for us and I look forward to continuing to support the NPI franchise system in my new role.”</p> </div> <div class="col-sm-6"> <div class="testimonial testimonial-style-4"> <blockquote> <p>I have long admired the strength of the Carson Dunlop brand and am thrilled to join forces to further accelerate growth at NPI. I am extremely proud of the business we’ve built over the last 35 years and am enthusiastic about the future. Becoming part of Carson Dunlop will be an exciting new chapter for us and I look forward to continuing to support the NPI franchise system in my new role.</p> </blockquote> <div class="testimonial-arrow-down"> </div> <div class="testimonial-author"> <div class="testimonial-author-thumbnail"><img alt="Roland Bates" class="img-fluid rounded-circle" src="https://npifranchise.com/Portals/npicorp2/Assets/Images/Using/Employees/commercialemployees-roland2020-01.png?ver=gkWrQ0XzR0YroSN92jqRhQ%3d%3d" /></div> <p><strong>Roland Bates</strong><span>Founder of National Property Inspections, Inc.</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Carson Dunlop has been a pacesetter in the inspection industry for more than 40 years. A part of the FAX Capital family, the company was founded by Alan Carson and Bob Dunlop in 1978. Carson Dunlop currently offers industry-leading inspection services, education, and technology.</p> <p>With this alliance, National Property Inspections, Inc. joins an organization with over 70 employees dedicated to the inspection industry, and we now have five inspection-related business lines, including report-writing software, residential inspection services, commercial inspection services, franchising, and inspector training. Together, we look forward to becoming the North American leader in inspection services.</p> <p>Carson Dunlop and NPI share the same core values of Honesty, Integrity, and Professionalism, and we assure you that these values will continue to guide NPI and Carson Dunlop indefinitely. With these expanded resources from the Carson Dunlop family of companies, our NPI and GPI inspectors will have increased access to additional support personnel and industry-leading report-writing software.</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-3"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/franchisesSiteAssets/Badges/35_web-06.png" width="100%" /></div> <div class="col-sm-9"> <p>We’d like to take this opportunity to extend a heartfelt thank you to our clients and partnered real estate professionals. Thanks to your continued support, National Property Inspections, Inc. has had the privilege of performing thousands of inspections for clients and agents across North America. We sincerely appreciate your trusting us with your inspection needs these last 35 years, and we look forward to growing in order to serve you even better in the future.</p> <p>For all of your home and commercial needs, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">find your local NPI or GPI inspector today</a>!</p> </div> </div> 1368Get the Most Out of Your Home Listinghttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1283/get-the-most-out-of-your-home-listingHome Inspection,Home MaintenanceMon, 30 Aug 2021 14:18:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR HOME LISTING</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 30, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/summer">Summer</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/spring">Spring</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a></p> <p>Trying to get the most money for your home can feel like navigating through a maze at times. You try to figure out your local market and price your house competitively, but you’re still struggling to get good offers. As you work with your agent, they’ll likely give you advice on how to optimize your listing. Here are a few tips to draw the perfect buyer to your home.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Spruce Up Your Listing </span><br /> To make a great first impression with buyers, start by creating a strong listing. Each part from your pictures to the description of the house should be as accurate as possible. If a buyer comes to tour and realizes things aren’t how they appear in your listing, it can turn them away from making an offer. Staging your home for photos makes all the difference in how buyers will assess it. To get your home picture ready, clean from top to bottom. All your belongings should be put away so that people can see each room in its entirety. If you have a storage area or large closet space you want to highlight, clear it out to show the full size. Lastly, use good lighting so each room is easier to see--this will make all its features really pop.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Time the Market Right </span><br /> Your agent will help you navigate your local market once you start the listing process, but when’s the best time to enter it? Typically the housing market ramps up during spring and lasts through summer, ultimately tapering off in the fall. People with children tend to look to move in the summer before school starts back up, so your best bet to catch more offers is during the transition into spring. Along with the right timing, you need the right pricing. Again, your agent will be able to provide the best insight on staying competitive with other houses on the market.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Small Renovations Could Make the Difference </span><br /> It might be worth your time and money to do some light repair work and boost your home’s attractiveness to potential buyers. You’re most likely trying to save as much as you can while selling and house hunting, so you don’t need to go overboard. Here are some of the renovations you can do to increase your home’s value: </p> <ul> <li>Give your kitchen a facelift. </li> <li>Fix your flooring. </li> <li>Update the master bath. </li> <li>Create a new outdoor space. </li> <li>Incorporate energy-efficient features. (windows, appliances, etc.)</li> </ul> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Share it on Social </span><br /> Nearly everyone is connected online today, and you can use that to your advantage as a seller! Share your listing on your Facebook, Twitter, or other accounts to reach as many people as possible. If you change the price or have any updates, you can easily send them out with a quick post. You can also integrate attention-grabbing features such as virtual tours that let people “walk through” your home before they visit.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Get a Pre-Listing Inspection! </span><br /> You can <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/benefits-of-a-pre-listing-home-inspection">benefit from having a pre-listing inspection</a> before you accept an offer on your home. You’ll catch items that need fixed and avoid haggling with the buyer about pricing out repairs, or possibly lowering the sale price. It’ll also give your agent better information when finding the sweet spot for your home in the market. In the end, a pre-listing inspection will help you save time and money. National Property Inspections can assist with your home inspection needs. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Call your local inspector</a> and schedule a pre-listing inspection today!</p> 1283A New Leaf: Pros and Cons of Moving During Autumnhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1276/a-new-leaf-pros-and-cons-of-moving-during-autumnJust for Fun,SafetyMon, 16 Aug 2021 15:02:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">A NEW LEAF: PROS AND CONS OF MOVING DURING AUTUMN</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 16, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a></p> <p>Moving can be an exciting, albeit, stressful time during any season. Fall, especially, has its own set of challenges, the main one being weather. But there are upsides to selling at the end of the year as well. So is it worth it to move during the changing season, or should you wait it out?</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Pro: Fall typically has nicer temperatures. </span><br /> Autumn temperatures tend not to drastically swing too much, which is nice when you’re trying to plan out a moving day. Unlike spring or early summer, you won’t have to worry about getting caught in a surprise rainstorm. The cooler temperatures also mean you probably won’t be sweating or risk getting overheated as you sort boxes and lug totes up the stairs.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Con: Northern falls can get chilly. </span><br /> While it’ll feel good to have lower temps, you might have to be wary of that fluffy white stuff interfering. Northern climates in particular are prone to early snows that could impact your travel plans. Ice and snow make roads dangerous to drive on for long distances. If you’re not heading out until late October or November, you may need to keep a close eye on the forecast.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Pro: You might be able to find help easier. </span><br /> Summer tends to be the height of the home-buying and selling season, but tapers off near the end of the year. Because of this, moving companies usually have lower rates and more help available in autumn. You won’t have to scramble to find movers at the last minute, and you’ll be able to save some cash in the end.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Con: You might not get as high of a price point. </span><br /> With a cooler market comes a drop in selling prices. This is good if you’re on the buying end, but not so much if you’re trying to sell your home. You could find yourself waiting around to find a buyer or you may need to adjust your selling price to match the market.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Pro: There’s still time to meet your new neighbors! </span><br /> If you’re uprooting yourself and moving miles away, you might feel as though you’re starting your social status at zero. But the good news is that there’s still time to meet your neighbors before the winter freeze! A campfire, weekend cookout, or lawn party are great ways to introduce yourself and meet new people.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Con: You’ll have to work around the holidays. </span><br /> The time of October through December is full of holiday celebrations. You could find yourself having to work around these days, and it could change your neighborhood party plans. Even the days leading up can be hectic, and moving companies may alter their hours.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Moving in Fall: The Verdict </span><br /> Overall, moving into a new home during autumn can be a great opportunity. Selling costs are low, travel is easier, and you still have plenty of time to get settled before winter sets in. It should be noted, however, that it’s not entirely perfect. A surprise cold snap could alter your travel plans, your current house might drop in price, and if you have school-aged kids, moving during the year is a tough adjustment. When you decide it’s time to move, be sure to schedule a professional home inspection! The inspectors at NPI have the knowledge and tools to give you a quality inspection. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Find your local inspector here</a>.</p> 1276Benefits of a Pre-Listing Home Inspectionhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/103/benefits-of-a-pre-listing-home-inspectionHome InspectionWed, 29 Aug 2018 18:05:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">BENEFITS OF A PRE-LISTING HOME INSPECTION</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 29, 2018 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/real-estate">real estate</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-seller">home seller</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/moving">moving</a></p> <p>When you’re trying to sell your home, should you hire your own home inspector? It’s a good question, and it’s one many homeowners ask their real estate agents before putting their houses on the market. As it turns out, there are a lot of great reasons to get a pre-listing home inspection before a buyer makes an offer. We’ll tell you everything you need to know below for a smooth, hassle-free sale process.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. You won’t be surprised. </span><br /> There are certain flaws about your home you’re already well aware of, but what about the things you know nothing about? When you order a pre-listing inspection, you get a top-to-bottom report of hundreds of features and systems in your home. If any problems are revealed, you’ll have a chance to repair them or build repairs into your asking price. This is especially good for DIYers, who can save a lot of money by completing simple repairs themselves.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. You can price your home more accurately. </span><br /> Pricing is one of the toughest parts of selling your home, but a pre-listing inspection makes it easier. Once you have a full picture of your home’s strengths and weaknesses, you can be a lot more confident that you’ve arrived at the right price point. If a buyer sees that you’ve priced your home transparently based on an independent inspection, they may also be less likely to submit a lower offer.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. You’ll save money in the long run. </span><br /> Having to deal with a surprise repair that only comes to light during the buyer’s inspection can be more expensive than taking care of the problem yourself. Whether the buyer insists on an expensive contractor rather than a DIY repair or wants more money taken off your asking price than you think is fair, relying solely on a buyer’s inspection can be costly.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. You’ll save time and stress on negotiations. </span><br /> When all parties are fully informed about the home being sold, the process of selling goes much faster and cuts down on stress. Without a pre-listing inspection, the one question that’s bound to be on your mind is “what if there’s a sale-killing problem I don’t know about?” And if you do know about a problem that’s likely to affect a buyer’s decision, it’s better to get everything out in the open from the get-go.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. You’ll make your real estate agent’s job much easier. </span><br /> There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes when you’re a real estate agent. When working to sell a home, an agent can spend days researching not only the house itself, but the neighborhood, schools and values of other homes in the area, too. When you add a pre-listing inspection to the data your agent is collecting, they can form a better idea of what your home will reasonably go for in the current market, which makes the process go smoothly for everyone involved.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections for a Full Assessment of Your Home </span><br /> Your local NPI inspector has the professional training and experience to help assess the condition of your home’s structure and major systems. <a class="color-secondary" href="/Find-an-Inspector" target="_blank"> Give them a call</a> today to schedule your pre-listing inspection.</p> 103