Almost 15 years ago now, our family made the move from California to Texas. Since then, we’ve worked with countless clients relocating to Austin from the golden state. While real estate in California and Austin has a number of similarities, understanding the differences, and what they can mean for your transaction, can be the key to a stress-free real estate experience. In our latest blog series, we unpack the 10 biggest differences between the California and Texas real estate process and how you can use them to your advantage. Here is our post in our Texas vs California real estate about home inspections.
Texas vs California Real Estate: Pre-Listing Inspections
One of the major differences in the home sale process is the role of inspections.
Our listing agents have long recommended pre-listing inspections to their clients to enhance a home’s marketability. The thought process is that a home that’s been pre-inspected prior to listing, and the findings fully disclosed as required by law, is a more appealing home to a buyer because it removes the potential for surprises.
In Texas, the idea of pre-listing inspections has yet to catch fire, so most homes listed need to be inspected after the offer is accepted.
What Are the Benefits to a Home Inspection?
We believe so strongly in inspections that we actually wrote a dedicated post to this: Why Should I Get A Home Inspection.
This issue though, is one that we think California has a bit of an advantage on because pre-listing inspections can help both parties. While we discuss the benefits to buyers in the post above, pre-listing inspections also help the seller. First, it can save the seller money. When you are under contract and agree to do repairs, it states in the contract that a licensed person must do the work; but if you get an inspection prior to listing and you’re handy, you can make the repairs yourself at a lower cost. Inspections can also reduce the seller’s liability from accidental acts of nondisclosure. A 3rd party inspection can reveal defects which the seller has never noticed or thought irrelevant. Finally, it greatly reduces the likelihood that the buyer will cancel. The more you can tell a buyer upfront, the more serious you know they are when the write the offer.
Overall inspections are well-worth the cost to both a buyer and seller. For the cost of an inspection (generally $400-$600), each party gets a punch list for repairs and peach of mind. Well worth it when you consider that a home is likely the largest purchase you will ever make. Buying a home is a good investment.
Considering a Move to Austin?
Check out our Austin Relocation Blog, our Guide to Relocating to Austin and our Tips for a Successful Relocation Experience for more tips. Then check out our Austin Home Buyers page to learn why we are the best Realtors to help you relocate to Austin. When you’re ready to reach out, fill out our Relocation Survey, send us an email at info@11OaksRealty.com or call us at (512) 827-8323 to schedule a no obligation consultation.
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