Love Buying a Home series – Week 10

No buyer wants regrets after closing on their dream home, whether it’s a hillside retreat in San Pedro, a charming bungalow in Silver Lake, or a beachy haven in Venice. A Los Angeles home inspection is one of the most important steps in the home-buying process, ensuring you fully understand the property you’re about to invest in.

This week’s article, How to Navigate a Home Inspection, takes a deep dive into what you need to know before, during, and after the inspection. Whether it’s checking for potential red flags or knowing how to negotiate with the seller, you’ll find actionable tips to make this part of the journey less stressful and more productive.

What is a Los Angeles Home Inspection?

A Los Angeles home inspection is a professional evaluation of the property’s condition. While it isn’t required by law, it’s a crucial step to protect your investment. An inspector will check the home’s major systems, structural integrity, and overall safety. The findings help you decide if you want to move forward, renegotiate, or walk away from the deal.

Why Los Angeles Homes Require Special Attention

Homes in Los Angeles, particularly in neighborhoods like San Pedro, Hollywood Hills, or Mid-City, often have unique challenges. Coastal homes in areas like San Pedro or Malibu may face issues like salt-air corrosion or foundation shifting due to their proximity to the ocean. Meanwhile, older properties in areas like West Adams or Highland Park might have outdated plumbing or electrical systems.

During a Los Angeles home inspection, it’s vital to pay close attention to:

• Earthquake readiness: Are there seismic retrofits like foundation bolting?
• Water damage: Does the property show signs of past leaks or mold, especially near the coast?
• Termite activity: LA’s climate makes it prime territory for wood-destroying pests.
• Aging infrastructure: Plumbing, roofing, and HVAC systems may require updates in older homes.

Steps to Navigate Your Los Angeles Home Inspection

1. Before the Inspection

• Choose a Qualified Inspector: Look for someone experienced with the quirks of Los Angeles homes. In San Pedro, inspectors familiar with coastal conditions can save you headaches down the road.
• Understand What’s Included: While inspections cover a lot, they don’t include everything. For example, pools, mold tests, or sewer scopes often cost extra.
• Be Prepared: Review the seller’s disclosures ahead of time to identify areas needing closer scrutiny during the inspection.

2. During the Inspection

• Attend in Person: Walking through the home with the inspector gives you a chance to ask questions and better understand potential issues.
• Focus on Major Systems: Structural integrity, roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems are the most critical to evaluate. I would even argue the roof as well.
• Take Notes: Pay attention to explanations about maintenance needs, even if they aren’t dealbreakers.

3. After the Inspection

• Review the Report Thoroughly: The inspection report will detail findings, including photos and a summary of major and minor issues.
• Negotiate Repairs or Price Adjustments: Use the report to request repairs or a credit toward closing costs, especially for costly items like roof damage or outdated systems.
• Decide What’s Non-Negotiable: For significant issues, determine if you’re willing to walk away or if the seller’s concessions make it worth moving forward.

Common Los Angeles Home Inspection Issues

Here are some issues you might encounter during a Los Angeles home inspection:

• Foundation Cracks: Homes in areas like the Palos Verdes Peninsula or San Fernando Valley often experience settling.
• Roof Damage: Flat roofs, popular in LA mid-century homes, are prone to leaks if not properly maintained.
• HVAC Problems: Older units may need replacing, especially in homes built before energy-efficient systems were common.
• Salt Air Corrosion: In coastal neighborhoods like San Pedro, metal fixtures and appliances often show wear from exposure to salty air.
• Drainage Issues: Properties on hillsides or with older grading may suffer from poor water runoff, leading to erosion or water pooling.

Final Tips for Your Los Angeles Home Inspection

• Budget for Repairs: Factor inspection findings into your overall budget.
• Ask Questions: No question is too small—inspectors are there to help you understand the property.
• Keep Perspective: Every home has issues; the key is determining what you can manage or afford to fix.

Buying a home in Los Angeles is exciting, but the inspection process can feel overwhelming. Remember, this step is about protecting your investment and ensuring your future home is as sound as it is beautiful.

Stay Tuned!

This is the 10th article in my Love Buying a Home series, and we’re nearing the finish line! Next week’s topic, “What to Do About Red Flags in a Home Inspection,” will help you identify which issues to prioritize and how to handle them.

Have questions? Email me at James.Daniel@KW.com and I’ll be happy to guide you through the process or answer any questions you have about buying a home in Los Angeles.

JdanielRealEstate.com