A pre-offer home inspection in Massachusetts is a home inspection conducted before submitting an offer on a property, often limited in scope. It is intended to help buyers identify major issues so that the buyer can waive their inspection contingency in their offer to purchase. These inspections are typically faster and omit important analysis that is common in full home inspections. They expose buyers to risk while not providing sufficient due diligence.
In a competitive real estate market like Massachusetts, buyers often think they need to act fast. A pre-offer home inspection seems to be a solution but it is not as comprehensive as a full inspection. It can expose buyers to risk because the socpe and process is not defined, often does not confirm to the home Inspector's regulations, and is often controlled and limited by the seller's sgent or seller.
A pre-offer inspection typically focuses on key systems and visible structural issues, but can vary widely, so you don;t really know what is included or what is excluded:
These inspections are often completed in an hour or less, depending on the property size - where a full home inspection might take three times that.
Perceived benefits of pre-offer inspections include:
A full pre-offer inspection would be a way to get full due diligence, but they are a partial solution to the problem that's been created by waiving inspection contingencies.
For a deeper understanding of the inspection process, visit the ASHI inspection guide.
If you’re considering a property and want to act quickly, contact MKC Associates to schedule a full home inspection.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a lifelong dream, schedule your property inspection today. Our team is available 7 days a week to deliver outstanding inspections and best-in-class service. Call to ask about our discounts for teachers, police, firefighters, veterans, active-duty military, seniors, and repeat customers.
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