Chris Hutnik

Ceritified Inspector

Cell: 519-791-8225

Email: hhi@cogeco.ca

For more information on these or other topics or to set
up your appointment call or email us.  We would be happy to help.

About us

HUTNIK HOME INSPECTIONS is a certified, independently owned and operated Home & Property Inspection Company, servicing the Essex & Kent Counties.  Along with the highest level of standards of customer service, our inspections meet or exceed provincial licensing requirements and industry standards followed out by the ASHI standards.

Whether you're buying or selling a home, this is one of the biggest decisions and/or investments that you will make in your life.  There can be many problems in a home that only a qualified inspector would find.

HUTNIK HOME INSPECTIONS has been trusted by home buyers and Realtors to help in the decision process of purchasing a home.  During the home inspection, which will usually range from 2-3 hours long (depending on the size of house), we encourage you to follow along with your inspector as they perfom their duties.

Why have a Home Inspection?

It is sometimes hard to pick up on all the flaws in a home when you're distracted with different things such as the wrap around porch or the beautiful landscaping.  Thousands of dollars could be waiting for you on the other side of the door.  Having a third party involved that is trained to find deficiencies will help you find your dream home & ease your mind knowing the state of the premises.  Just to note, for all the homes that we have inspected, I can truly say that "all houses have their flaws and it is our job to find them and make sure that you are aware before any final signatures.

What is a Pre-Inspection and why are they important?

Pre-Inspection of the home may be a necessity in todays market.  The way clients know the true condition of the home that they're putting on the market is by getting a guaranteed pre-inspections by a professional inspection company.  With a home pre-inspected, sellers have the opportunity to address any defects an inspector might find and have them repaired before a possible buyer even sees the house.  That gives the seller and Sales Representative peace of mind that the property they are listing has no surprises awaiting them during the contract process.  It also eliminates last minute price negotiating and the possibility that buyers might develop cold feet regarding a sale once the buyer inspection uncovers a needed repair, often bringing into question the whole purchase.

A guaranteed pre-inspection is also an effective selling tool, reassuring buyers that whay they see is what they get.  A professional pre-inspection puts a written document in the hands of the buyer, attesting to the serious intent of the seller.  It not only explains any defects that exists but also highlights the assets of the home, pointing out which major systems have recently been updated if any.

Sales Representatives and sellers should verify that such a company uses inspectors who carry the proper insurance, including professional liability and general liability insurances and are certified by a recognized training and certification program.

Shopping for a new home is an emotional experience. It’s also time consuming and  comes with a myriad of details. Some buyers, however, caught up in the excitement of buying a new home tend to overlook some items. Their home purchase turns into an expensive process. These errors generally fall into three areas:

• Paying too much
• Losing a dream home to another buyer
• Buying the wrong home

When you have a systematic plan before you shop, you’ll be sure to avoid these costly errors. Here are some tips on making the most of your home purchase:

Bidding without sufficient information
What price do you offer a seller? Is the seller’s asking price too high? Is it a deal? Without research on the market and comparable homes, you could lose thousands of dollars. Before you make that offer, be sure you have researched the market. A professional realtor, can offer an unbiased opinion on the value of a home, based on market conditions, condition of the home and neighborhood. Without knowledge of the market, your offer could be too much. Or worse, you could miss out on a great buying opportunity.

Buying a mis-matched home
What do you need and want in a home? Sounds simple. Yet, clearly identifying your needs and bringing an objective view to home shopping, leaves you in a better position. Sometimes, home buyers buy a home that is too large or too small. Perhaps they didn’t consider the drive to work, the distance to school, or the many repair jobs waiting for completion. Plan ahead. Use your needs list as a guideline for every home you view.

Unclear title
Before you sign any document, be sure the property you are considering is free of all encumbrances. As part of their services, a realtor can supply you with a copy of the title to ensure there are no liens, debts, undisclosed owners, leases or easements.

Outdated survey
Before the purchase is completed, an updated survey is essential. This report will indicate boundaries and structural changes (additions to the house, a new swimming pool, neighbor’s new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.).

Unexpected repairs
For $300 - $500 a professional inspector will conduct a thorough inspection of the home. This way, you’ll have an idea of the cost of future repairs. Make the final contract subject to a favourable report.

Shopping without pre-approval
It only takes a few days to get financing pre-approval. When you are shopping for a home, this gives you more power. A seller is more likely to consider an offer from a serious buyer.