If you are financing your home you will most likely need to pay for an appraisal and if you are buying a home, you should pay for a home inspection. Our Nations Lending loan officers remind clients that while both the appraiser and home inspector look at, or inspect, the property, each is doing so with a different purpose. The appraisal evaluates the property as collateral, the inspection evaluates the condition of the property. Many Nations Lending borrowers are surprised at how little time most appraisers spend at the property. Keep in mind that the appraiser’s purpose is to objectively determine the fair market value of the property in comparison to other similar properties that have sold, and are on the market, in the vicinity for the lender. The appraiser notes the similarities, differences and prices of the properties to evaluate and compare the properties to arrive at a value of your property. The appraiser will also note if certain compliance laws are being followed (smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, strapped and raised water heaters), and if there are any noticeable issues visible by cursory inspection that can create a safety hazard or impact value. On the other hand, Nations Lending LOs our clients that the purpose of a home inspection is to thoroughly inspect all the physical attributes of the property and test all the mechanical systems. The inspector will crawl under the home and up on the roof. Put electrical instruments in all the plugs. Turn on all the faucets in the sinks and showers and then flush the toilets. Walk the perimeter of the building looking for cracks and how water drains. Heating and cooling systems turned on and off. If appliances are included, they will also be tested. The floors and flooring will be noted for wear and tear. Depending on the age of the property, there will some flaws, some wear and tear. The important aspects of the inspection are any items that need costly repairs or replacements soon. Nations reminds our clients that there are potentially issues in brand new construction as well dependent upon the quality of workmanship when the house is being built. Never assume that because it is brand new it is perfect.