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The Home Inspection after July 1, 2017

May 24, 2017 By Doug Francis

Virginia Home Inspection lawScheduling a home inspection in Virginia may be a little more difficult after July 1, 2017 when a new licensing law for home inspectors goes into effect.

The immediate impact will be a reduction in the home inspector population… yes, fewer home inspectors!

Every July new laws go into effect in Virginia, and this year the real estate business will feel the impact immediately.

After July 1, inspectors will need a valid home inspection license to get paid. Those who are still in business may charge more and possibly stop working seven days a week.

Here’s my prediction… those still in business will charge more and stop working 24/7.

So, if you are planning to buy a home, research home inspectors early on as part of your strategy. Have at least two vetted candidates in the wings may be smart since each inspector creates unique final reports.

In recent articles that I have written about inspecting new homes,  I will revise them to include a paragraph on the New Residential Structure (NRS) designation. NRS is required if this transaction is truly a new, new home (not a remodel job).

Why is this so important in Virginia?

Virginia home inspection licensing law

Looking at a steep roof

Home inspections can be a critical part of the home buying process. Really a make or break test for a home buyer.

Virginia has slowly added a voluntary accreditation process.

I always like to point out to clients that Virginia is a buyer beware state, caveat emptor!

Yes, we have the Buyer to Beware Statement in Virginia meaning it’s the buyer’s responsibility to consult with professionals.

Home inspection contingency tips

A good offer can become less desirable when they buyer includes a home inspection contingency period longer than ten days. Especially in a seller’s market, like the current Vienna real estate market, when there are two or more buyers in line for any home priced under a million.

Understanding how the paragraph is written is important too because, during the inspection period, a buyer can hire any professional to examine the property. For example a structural engineer, chimney inspector, plumber, and electrician.

Especially with an older home that has been remodeled, looking at everything is essential.

The NVAR home inspection contingency gives you two options at the end of the period.

  • void the contract
  • submit an addendum for negotiation

You can discuss these options with your real estate agent since each situation is unique. Remember, Virginia real estate law places the responsibility of the home buyer to be satisfied with what he or she is buying.

After July 1, 2017, make sure your Virginia home inspector has the proper state license.

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Filed Under: Blog, Home Buyer Tips Tagged With: buyer agent, Home Buyer Tips, Vienna Virginia

About Doug Francis

A Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug started writing a first-hand blog about his everyday real estate experiences a decade ago. In depth, helpful and fun has always been the objective. Outside real estate, he was profiled in a commercial for Verisign's "Where the World Clicks" campaign, and was quoted in Money Magazine's Best Places to Live article on Vienna. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

Being able to guide my clients through many real estate sales, either moving out, moving in, or just across town, has been a rewarding experience that helps when discussing a plan with a future client.

Being able to help them focus and understand our proven sales plan always eases their anxiety of this looming personal task. And, putting it into bite-sized steps always helps them get where they really want to be.

My background… I’ve been an active licensed agent in Virginia for 25 years, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and sell homes in all price ranges. I donate to the town tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Questions? Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 to discuss your plans. Cheers!

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About Doug Francis

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I have been a full-time Realtor licensed in Virginia since 1991, and cover a big territory specializing in the Vienna real estate market and custom homes for sale.

I have unique knowledge of digital real estate marketing, and my marketing starts here. My elite clientele has been attracted to my results-oriented strategy for years, and I am accepting new clients now.

Thanks for reading, and feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!

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TTR Sotheby's International Realty
6723 Whittier Avenue McLean, VA 22101

Office: 703-319-3344
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