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Addressing Your Real Estate Concerns
There are many aspects of California real estate law, from provisions governing purchase agreements to land use regulations and beyond. At the Watkins Firm, our experienced real estate lawyers guide clients through all aspects of real estate transactions and vigorously represent them in litigation over real estate disputes.
This section contains some basic information about real estate law in the United States. To discuss what our knowledgeable California attorneys can do to address your real estate legal concerns, contact us at our offices in San Diego to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.
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We take a cost-effective approach to real estate law, advising our clients on all of their options and keeping our services within the budgets we have agreed to in advance. To work with San Diego real estate lawyers who will respect your bottom line, contact us today.
Our attorneys are particularly experienced at representing parties to construction agreements and disputes, as well as homeowners' associations and residential real estate developers seeking to set up these associations in California.
Home Inspections
Buying a home can be stressful and time consuming. Obtaining a home inspection can take some of the worry out of the process. An independent home inspector will give a buyer a complete picture of the condition of the property he or she is considering buying. Most houses are not perfect, and the inspector's detailed report gives the buyer an unbiased evaluation letting him or her know what needs work now and what will probably need work in the near future. Obtaining a home inspection and reviewing the results with an experienced real estate attorney at Watkins Firm, A Professional Corporation in San Diego, California can put a home buyer in an informed position to negotiate his or her purchase.
The Inspection
The type of inspection that a buyer needs depends on many factors. Of course, every buyer should make his or her own basic inspection. A buyer should also obtain a professional whole-house inspection by a reputable person to uncover defects that may not be readily apparent. If the buyer is using an FHA or VA loan, a third, somewhat less thorough, inspection occurs at the time of the appraisal. The appraisal required by the lender is not as thorough and focuses on the value, not the condition, of the property. It does not substitute for an inspection.
An inspector does not evaluate whether or not a buyer is getting good value for his or her money. Rather, the inspector checks the safety of the home, focusing on the structure, construction and mechanical systems to determine whether any repairs are necessary. Generally, an inspector checks the electrical system, plumbing and waste disposal systems, water heater, insulation, ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems, water source, water quality, potential for pests, foundation, doors, windows, ceilings, walls, floors and roof. If the home inspector discovers a serious problem, the inspector may suggest a more specific inspection. A buyer should also consider having the home inspected for the presence of a variety of health-related risks, such as radon gas, asbestos or lead, if not included in the basic inspection.
Although a buyer need not attend the inspection, many buyers prefer to be present. Following the inspection, many home inspectors will answer questions about the report and any problem areas. The inspection also provides an opportunity to hear an objective opinion on the home's quality.
The Inspector
A buyer should hire a home inspector who is qualified and experienced. In many states, home inspectors must be licensed. A buyer should obtain an inspection before signing a written offer. If that is not possible, a buyer may include an inspection clause in the offer when negotiating for a home, giving the buyer an opportunity to back out of the contract if the inspection discloses serious problems. An inspection clause can also specify that the seller must fix certain problems or make monetary concessions for any problems before the buyer will purchase the property. A real estate attorney at Watkins Firm, A Professional Corporation understands the interaction between the inspection and the purchase agreement, and can assist the home buyer in negotiating appropriate terms regarding the inspection.
Conclusion
A wise buyer realizes that an extensive home inspection is a necessity, not a luxury, and that the cost of the inspection is money well spent. Inspections are designed to disclose defects that could materially affect the property's safety, livability or resale value. Contact an experienced real estate attorney at Watkins Firm, A Professional Corporation to guide you through the inspection process and assist you in interpreting the inspection results and its implications.
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DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.
