Ron Rittiner's (darnifino) Blog

There is an effort underway in TN to re-evalute the eligibility for Home Inspectors to have access to the lockbox entry system.  At $3.00/gallon for gas, not to mention the value of the realtor's time, I think maybe it is time this should happen.Most realtors I know do not stay around during the ...

UTILITY SHUTOFFS - WATERBy Richard A. AcreePresident, HABITEC Home and Building Inspections, LLCIt's 4 AM in January.  It's dark in the house and outside.  Outside it's windy and cold, real cold, like 10 degrees F.  You wake up to the sound of running water.  Lots of running water.  The sounds ar...

UTILITY SHUTOFFS - WATERBy Richard A. AcreePresident, HABITEC Home and Building Inspections, LLCIt's 4 AM in January.  It's dark in the house and outside.  Outside it's windy and cold, real cold, like 10 degrees F.  You wake up to the sound of running water.  Lots of running water.  The sounds ar...

Answer:  The cost of a Home Inspection varies depending on several issues.  The size of the home, the age, the foundation and the complexity all can factor in to the cost of a Home Inspection.Some Home Inspectors offer a variety of services in addition to the basic Home Inspection.  These can inc...

Answer:  A well conducted Home Inspection should take approximately 1 hour per thousand square feet.  This time can vary depending on what the Home Inspector is asked to do.  If a Home Inspector is also contracted to complete a radon test, mold evaluation or property inspection then the total tim...

Answer:  Most states have adopted licensing for Home Inspectors.  If that is the case where you live, then the State also provides rules for conducting a Home Inspection.  Your Home Inspector is obligated to follow those rules to the best of his/her ability.  Some agencies offer guidelines as wel...

Answer:  A home buyer is not required to be present for the Home Inspection.  However, it is recommended that at least one of the buyers attend all or some of the Home Inspection.  A great deal can be learned by talking to the Home Inspector about the house you are trying to purchase.  A good Hom...

Answer:  Most Home Inspectors offer a computer generated Home Inspection Report to present their findings.  The best companies offer reports that include digital pictures embedded in the report to add clarity to the discussion.  There should also be a summary section at the end of the report.  Ho...

nswer:  YES!  Reputable Home Inspection companies offer this service.  A good Home Inspection Report will leave few questions for the home buyer but it is virtually impossible to eliminate all questions.  A few minutes on the telephone can clear the air quickly.

Answer:  Ask the Home Inspector for references.  A good Home Inspector should be able to offer at least 6 names of Clients or Realtors they have worked with who will speak on their behalf.  Also, a Home Inspector should offer testimonials from previous Clients.  A Home Inspector proud of his/her ...