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Navigating the various inspections can be overwhelming when buying or selling a property.
Three key evaluations often involved in real estate transactions are the home appraisal, lender inspection, and property inspection. While these terms might sound interchangeable, they serve distinct purposes and are conducted by different parties.
Experienced real estate investors know the value of understanding these crucial evaluations; inspection requirements vary for buyers and sellers. Here is a breakdown of the differences between home appraisals, lender inspections, and property inspections.
What is a Home Appraisal
A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of a property’s fair market value conducted by a certified appraiser. Typically, the lender orders this assessment to ensure the property’s value aligns with the loan amount requested by the buyer. The appraiser evaluates various factors, including the property’s size, condition, location, recent sales of similar properties in the area (comparables or “comps”), and any unique features that might affect its value.
The primary purpose of a home appraisal is to protect the lender’s investment by confirming the property is worth the amount to be borrowed. This evaluation influences the loan approval process, as lenders usually use the appraised value to determine the maximum loan amount they’re willing to provide.
What is a Lender Inspection
Often confused with a property inspection, a lender inspection (also known as a mortgage inspection or basic property survey) is a minimal assessment. It is conducted on behalf of the lender to ensure the property meets their minimum standards for lending. This inspection focuses primarily on determining if the property exists, its boundaries, and any encroachments or significant issues that could affect the loan collateral.
Unlike a comprehensive property inspection that examines the condition of a home’s systems and structure, a lender inspection focuses on verifying the property’s existence and overall condition to secure the loan.
What is a Property Inspection
A property inspection is a thorough examination conducted by a licensed inspector hired by the buyer. This inspection assesses the property’s overall condition, including structural integrity, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC, roofing, and more. It’s a comprehensive review intended to uncover potential issues or safety concerns that might impact the property’s value or the buyer’s decision.
More extensive than a lender inspection, a property inspection is solely for the buyer’s benefit. It provides a detailed report highlighting any areas of concern, allowing the buyer to make an informed decision or negotiate repairs with the seller before finalizing the purchase.
While each of these evaluations – home appraisal, lender inspection, and property inspection – is essential in a real estate transaction, they serve different purposes. Understanding their purpose will help you better navigate the real estate process, and ensure any investment property you buy or sell is properly assessed before finalizing a transaction.
Talk to Our Washington Private Money Lender Team
Our trusted Gregory M. Russell private money lending team helps streamline the loan process. Unlike conventional lenders, we loan based on your available equity. The appraisal process is quick, paperwork is minimal, and you can have money in hand within days. We loan up to $400,000 and are an ideal financing source for real estate investors in Washington State interested in fix and flip and rental property opportunities. Call us at 1-888-477-0444 with questions or your loan request. Or use our simple online form and apply online. We look forward to partnering with you.