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Not all home Inspectors are created equal

1/23/2023

Choosing a home inspector is an important decision when you are buying a home. A home inspection can help you understand the condition of the home you are interested in buying, and can potentially save you from purchasing a home with significant problems. In the state of South Carolina, the only requirements to be a home inspector are taking a 50-hour online course or attending 50 paid inspections with a licensed home inspector and passing the state licensing test. One option to consider when choosing a home inspector is to select one who is certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). Here are a few reasons why this can be a good choice:

1. InterNACHI-certified home inspectors have undergone extensive training and testing. In order to become certified, a home inspector must pass a comprehensive exam and meet continuing education requirements. This ensures that InterNACHI-certified home inspectors are knowledgeable about all aspects of home inspection and are up-to-date on the latest industry standards and practices.

2. InterNACHI-certified home inspectors follow a strict code of ethics. InterNACHI has a Code of Ethics that all of its members must follow, including requirements such as performing inspections thoroughly and unbiasedly and disclosing any conflicts of interest. By choosing an InterNACHI-certified home inspector, you can trust that they will follow these ethical guidelines.

Below are some of my InterNACHI certifications:

3. InterNACHI-certified home inspectors have access to resources and support. As a member of InterNACHI, a certified home inspector has access to a wealth of resources and support, including continuing education opportunities, a forum for sharing best practices with other inspectors, and legal assistance in the event of a dispute.

4. InterNACHI-certified home inspectors may offer additional services. In addition to the standard home inspection, some InterNACHI-certified home inspectors may offer additional services such as thermal imaging, radon testing, and water testing. These additional services can provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of the condition of the home you are interested in purchasing.

Below are some of the additional services that are included with all of my inspections:

In summary, choosing an InterNACHI-certified home inspector can provide you with peace of mind that the inspector you are working with has undergone extensive training, follows a strict code of ethics, has access to resources and support, and may offer additional services beyond a standard home inspection.

I'm Hunter Hoffman, owner of Hoffman Home Inspections LLC. I am an InterNACHI CPI (Certified Professional Inspector). I am a licensed and insured home inspector in South Carolina and I currently service the myrtle beach area. If you own or are buying a home in the area please give me a call or schedule your inspection online today. I am always happy to help with an inspection or answer any questions you have

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Choosing a Home Inspector

1/16/2023

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When you're buying a home, it's important to have it thoroughly inspected by a professional home inspector. A home inspector will examine the structure, systems, and components of the home and provide you with a detailed report of their findings. Choosing a qualified home inspector is crucial to ensure that you're getting an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the property. Here are some tips for selecting a home inspector:

Look for an inspector with professional credentials: A good home inspector will have received training and certification from a professional organization, such as the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) or the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). These organizations have high standards for their members, so you can be confident that you're working with a skilled and knowledgeable inspector.
Check for experience: Experience counts in the field of home inspection. Look for an inspector who has been in the business for several years and has inspected a wide variety of homes. This will give you confidence that the inspector has seen it all and will be able to identify any issues with the property.
Read reviews and ask for references: Look for online reviews of the inspector you're considering, and ask for references from past clients. This will give you a sense of the inspector's reputation and the level of service they provide.
Consider the inspector's report: Ask to see a sample of the inspector's report to get an idea of the level of detail they provide. A good report should be comprehensive and easy to understand, with clear explanations of any issues found and recommendations for repairs or maintenance.
Consider the inspector's availability: It's important to choose an inspector who is available to perform the inspection at a time that's convenient for you. Make sure the inspector has availability on the days you're considering for the inspection.

By following these tips, you can choose a qualified and experienced home inspector who will provide you with a thorough and accurate assessment of the property you're considering. Call Hoffman Home Inspections today to schedule an inspection on your current property or a property you are buying. We service myrtle beach and all surrounding areas

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Benefits Of a Home inspection

1/9/2023

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To ensure that you are aware of potential issues or defects with the property before you buy it, it is important to have a thorough home inspection. A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of the condition of a home, performed by a trained and licensed professional. In most cases, it is performed before a home is sold and can help identify any potential problems that need to be addressed before the sale can be finalized.A new home should have a home inspection for several reasons:

An inspection can help identify potential problems with the home that are not immediately apparent. These could include problems with the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical system, and other important components.By having a home inspection, you can protect your investment by ensuring that you are aware of any issues that will need to be addressed before you purchase the home.
You can feel at ease knowing the home you are purchasing is in good condition with a home inspection. This can ease any concerns or doubts you may have about the house.
Negotiate repairs: If the home inspection reveals any problems with the property, you may be able to negotiate repairs with the seller before the sale is finalized. By avoiding the need to pay for repairs after you've already purchased the house, you will save money in the long run.

When purchasing a new home, it is important to have a home inspection performed to identify potential problems, protect your investment, and provide peace of mind. You can also negotiate repairs with the seller during a home inspection, which can save you money in the long run. Call Hoffman Home Inspections today if you're buying a new home or would like your current home inspected!

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monthly home maintenance checklist to extend the life of your home

1/4/2023

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As a home owner, it is important to regularly maintain and care for your home in order to keep it in good condition and prevent costly repairs. Here are the top 10 home maintenance tasks that every home owner should prioritize each month:

Clean and maintain your gutters and downspouts: This will help prevent water damage to your roof and walls. moving rain water away from the foundation of the home can prevent uneven settling that leads to foundation cracking and structural issues. We recommend installing downspout extensions that divert rain water at least 6ft from the foundation
Inspect and repair your roof: Damaged or missing shingles can lead to leaks and further damage to your home. We recommend visually inspection your roof from the ground by walking around your home and looking at the roof coverings, Especially after extreme weather or storms. If any raised or damaged shingles are seen, a roofing contractor should be called to evaluate the roof coverings
Check your home’s foundation: The foundation supports the entire structure of your home, so it is important to keep it in good repair. Checking your foundation can be as easy as feeling for sagging, raised areas, or movement while walking around each room of your home. If your home has a crawlspace you can visually inspect it from the access door with a flashlight to look for falling insulation, standing water or movement of piers and foundation walls.
Service your HVAC system: Regular maintenance will ensure that your heating and cooling system is operating efficiently and effectively. We recommend changing air filters every 1-3 months depending on the amount of people and pets living in the home. Annual servicing and cleaning from a HVAC company can help reduce unexpected failure and after hours service calls that tend to cost a lot more than the annual service.
Test and maintain your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Working detectors are essential for keeping you and your family safe. we recommend testing detectors monthly and replacing batteries as needed or when chirping can be heard. detectors on the ceiling or hard to reach places can usually be pressed from the ground using a broomstick or other long item to reduce the chance from falling off a ladder.
Check your plumbing: Leaky pipes and clogged drains can cause water damage and costly repairs. We recommend filling kitchen and bathroom sinks with water and watching the drains below the cabinets while they drain to check for any leaks or slow draining. As a Home Inspector it is common for me to find leaking drains in these areas that the current home owners or tenants were completely unaware of. The quicker a leak is caught, the less water damage will be able to occur to the cabinets or floor below
Inspect and maintain your Water Heater: Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the life of your water heater and save you money on energy costs. We recommend checking your water heater for any signs of water around the pipe fittings or in the drip pan that could indicate leaks. we also recommend annual servicing of the water heater by draining it to remove mineral buildup in the tank, this will improve water quality and the life of the water heater.
Maintain doors and windows: This will help keep them in good condition and improve the energy efficiency of your home. We recommend checking seals and weatherstripping around exterior windows and doors for damage and repairing them to reduce drafts and improve efficiency. We use a thermal imaging camera to view this during inspections but a homeowner can look for sunlight around a closed door, or feel for moving air around doors and windows on a windy day.
Inspect and maintain your outdoor spaces: This includes tasks such as trimming trees and bushes, mowing the lawn, and maintaining any outdoor structures, such as decks and sheds. We recommend keeping vegetation like bushes and trees trimmed at least 1 foot from the siding to prevent damage, moisture and insect access to the siding. repair rotted boards and loose railings on decks to reduce safety hazards.
Check your home’s exterior: Look for signs of damage, such as peeling paint or rot, and have them repaired as needed. The exterior siding creates an envelope that helps shed water out and away from the framing and interior of the home. when the siding gets damaged or rotted it can create an access point for water intrusion. simply walking around your home looking for cracked or damaged siding and having it repaired can prevent wood rot and structural damage

By following these home maintenance tasks, you can help protect your home and ensure that it is in good working order. It is also a good idea to keep a list of trusted professionals, such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, on hand for any needed repairs.

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Six things every homeowner should know how to do

1/2/2023

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1. How to change a lightbulb:
One of the most basic skills that all new homeowners should know how to do is how to change a lightbulb. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people have never actually done it themselves. To change a lightbulb, you'll need a new bulb, a ladder, and a screwdriver (if the light fixture has screws holding the cover/globe in place). First, turn off the power to the light fixture by flipping the switch or unplugging it. Then, remove the old bulb by unscrewing it to the left or pulling it out of the socket. Insert the new bulb and secure it in place. Finally, turn the power back on and test the light to make sure it's working properly.

2. How to fix a leaky faucet:
Leaky faucets are not only annoying, but they can also waste a lot of water and drive up your water bill. Fixing a leaky faucet is not too difficult and can be done with a few basic tools. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet by shutting off the valve under the sink. Then, disassemble the faucet to get to the valve or cartridge that controls the flow of water. If the valve or cartridge is damaged, you'll need to replace it. If not, you may be able to fix the leak by tightening a loose part or replacing a worn-out gasket.

3. How to unclog a drain:
Clogged drains are a common problem that every homeowner will eventually have to deal with. The most basic method for unclogging a drain is to use a plunger. Simply place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly to create suction. If this doesn't work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner or a homemade solution of vinegar and baking soda. If these methods don't work, you may need to use a snake or auger to physically remove the clog.

4. How to change the air filter in your HVAC system:
Changing the air filter in your HVAC system is an important task that should be done regularly to keep your system running efficiently. To change the filter, locate the filter compartment and remove the old filter. Measure the size of the filter and purchase a new one that is the same size. Then, insert the new filter into the compartment and close it up. It's a good idea to mark your calendar or set a reminder to change the filter every month or two.

5. How to reset a circuit breaker:
Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home's electrical system from overheating and short circuits. If a circuit breaker trips, it will cut off power to a particular circuit in your home. To reset a circuit breaker, locate the panel box and find the circuit breaker that is tripped (it will be in the "off" or "trip" position). Flip the breaker switch to the "off" position then back to the "on" position and see if power is restored to the affected circuit. If the breaker trips again, you may have a more serious electrical problem that requires the attention of a professional.

6. How to program your thermostat:
Learning how to program your thermostat can help you save energy and money on your utility bills. Most thermostats have a simple interface that allows you to set a schedule for the temperature in your home. You can set the thermostat to turn down the heat or air conditioning when you're not home, and turn it back up before you return. You can also set the thermostat to adjust the temperature based on the time of day or the outdoor temperature.

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10 Frequently Asked questions about Home Inspections

1/2/2023

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How does a home inspection work?

In the process of performing a home inspection, a professional examines the structure and systems of a house, identifying any issues that need to be addressed. This gives you a better idea of the condition of the property you are buying

What is the purpose of a home inspection?

By inspecting a property before you buy it, you can identify any potential problems and, if necessary, negotiate the terms of the sale. The home inspector can also give you information about the property like locations of water meters, electrical panels and main shut-offs, air filter sizes, and other preventative maintenance tips to keep the property in great condition for years to come.

What is the cost of a home inspection?

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 for a home inspection, depending on the size and age of the property and the services offered. Some services may have an additional fee, so make sure you understand the scope of the inspection and what will be an additional fee.

What is the average time it takes for a home inspection?

Home inspections typically take between two and four hours, depending on the size and condition of the home. A new build home will usually be faster to inspect than an older home or a home that is furnished or occupied.

What does the inspector check?

Home inspectors typically examine a property's foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and appliances. They also inspect the property's exterior, including the garage, siding, deck, and the surrounding ground's grading and drainage.

Is it necessary for me to attend the home inspection?

Attending the home inspection is not required, but it is strongly recommended as it allows you to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the property. If you're unable to attend, Hoffman Home inspection reports include pictures, videos, and descriptions of any issues that should be addressed . The inspector will also be available by phone, text, or email to answer any questions or go over your inspection report with you.

If the home inspector finds any problems, can he or she fix them?

The home inspector's role is to identify any problems with a property and provide a report. It's up to you, the buyer, to negotiate any necessary repairs. In most jurisdictions the inspector is not allowed to make repairs to the property. However, your home inspector can usually provide contacts for contractors or other companies that can give estimates or make repairs to the issues found in the inspection report.

Does a home inspection follow the same rules as a building code inspection?

It is not intended to ensure that a property meets building codes; a home inspection is merely a visual inspection. In order to ensure that the property meets the minimum standards for safety and construction, a building code inspection is typically conducted by a building code official during construction or renovations.

Is it possible for a home inspection to guarantee that there are no problems with the house?

It is possible that some issues may not be visible or may not be identified during a home inspection because it is a visual only examination of the property. some issues may be able to be seen under certain conditions like heavy rain or the location of furniture or personal items. At Hoffman Home Inspections we try our best to find these issues by doing things like filling all sinks, showers and tubs, entering all accessible attic spaces and crawl spaces, and using thermal imaging cameras to find signs of moisture or leaks even if they have been painted over or haven't persisted long enough to have caused visible damage

Is it possible to request a specific home inspector?

A home inspector can be requested in advance or from a list of qualified inspectors provided by the seller or real estate agent. Or you can find your own home inspector by a web search or a referral by a friend or family member. It is important to choose a home inspector with experience, knowledge, and professionalism. Not all Home Inspectors offer the same services or use the same tools, so make sure your inspector offers the services you want like thermal imaging, pool or septic inspections.

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Not all home Inspectors are created equal

Choosing a Home Inspector

Benefits Of a Home inspection

monthly home maintenance checklist to extend the life of your home

Six things every homeowner should know how to do

10 Frequently Asked questions about Home Inspections

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