Buying a home in Florida is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it doesn’t come without a certain degree of risk; you never know what hidden defects or problems might lurk behind the walls, under the floors, or in the roof of your dream home. That’s why it’s essential to have a thorough home inspection before you close the deal. However, it’s also just as important to have a competent real estate lawyer in your corner who can ensure the home inspection is performed properly and its findings are accurate. Please continue reading and reach out to the seasoned Florida real estate & title insurance attorneys here at Ansbacher Law to learn more about how a real estate lawyer can help with the inspection process, including addressing inspection concerns.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a limited visual examination of the structure, systems, and components of a home by a licensed professional. It can reveal issues such as mold, termites, Chinese drywall, code violations, and more. A home inspection can also influence the selling price of a home, as it can help you negotiate repairs or credits with the seller.
Why do I need a real estate lawyer?
It’s important to understand that a home inspection alone is not enough to protect your interests as a buyer. You also need a real estate lawyer to review and interpret the inspection report and contract terms, and address any concerns you may have. Just some of the ways in which a real estate lawyer can help with inspection concerns are as follows:
- They can work to incorporate language in the contract that requires the seller to disclose any known or latent defects that affect the value of the property. Under Florida law, sellers have a duty to disclose such defects, but they may not always comply or be aware of them. A real estate lawyer can help you enforce this duty and hold the seller liable for any damages caused by nondisclosure.
- A lawyer can potentially include an inspection contingency clause in the contract that allows you to cancel the deal or renegotiate the terms if the inspection reveals unsatisfactory conditions. An inspection contingency clause can also specify who is responsible for paying for the repairs or corrections, and what happens if they are not completed by a certain date.
- An attorney can accurately interpret the inspection report and the inspector’s contract. Home inspectors often limit their liability to the cost of the inspection report, which may not cover the full extent of your losses if they miss something important. A real estate lawyer can help you understand what the inspector is liable for and what you can do if you discover a defect after closing.
- An attorney can help prevent conflicts of interest with your real estate agent or inspector, as some agents may recommend inspectors who are friendly or affiliated with them, and who may not perform a thorough or unbiased inspection. A real estate lawyer can help you find an independent and reputable inspector who will work in your best interest.
The bottom line is that if you are buying a home in Florida, you mustn’t solely rely on a home inspection. Fortunately, you are in the right place. Ansbacher Law is here to help you get the peace of mind you deserve.
