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Intermediate terms

Essential Home Inspection Due Diligence Terms

This curated collection includes key terms that might be helpful when exploring home inspections and property due diligence. It covers the crucial process of evaluating a property's physical condition before purchase. These terms were selected based on common questions and areas where investors often need clarity.

Learning Path

1

Property Inspection

A property inspection is a visual examination of a property's condition by a qualified professional to identify defects, safety hazards, and maintenance needs before purchase.

Intermediate13-14 min
2

Structural Integrity

Structural integrity refers to a building's capacity to withstand loads and forces without failure, ensuring its safety, stability, and long-term durability. It is a critical factor in real estate investment, directly impacting property value and potential liabilities.

Intermediate5 min
3

Due Diligence

Due diligence is the critical process of investigating and verifying all material facts about a property and its financials before a real estate acquisition, aiming to identify risks and ensure an informed investment decision.

Intermediate14-15 min
4

Electrical System

The complete network of components, including wiring, panels, outlets, and switches, that distributes electrical power throughout a real estate property, essential for safety and functionality.

Beginner2-3 min
5

As-Is Sale

An "As-Is Sale" in real estate refers to a property being sold in its current condition, meaning the seller will not make any repairs or improvements, and the buyer accepts all existing defects.

Beginner5-6 min
6

Material Defects

A material defect is a significant issue with a property that substantially affects its value, desirability, or safety, and would influence a reasonable buyer's decision to purchase or the price they would pay.

Intermediate5-6 min
7

HVAC System

An HVAC system is a mechanical system responsible for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning a building, crucial for maintaining indoor comfort and air quality in real estate.

Beginner2 min
8

Foundation Issues

Foundation issues refer to structural problems affecting a property's base, often caused by soil movement, water damage, or poor construction, leading to significant repair costs and impacting property value.

Intermediate5 min
9

Mold Remediation

Mold remediation is the specialized process of safely identifying, containing, and removing mold growth from a property, followed by cleaning and disinfection to prevent its return and protect property value and occupant health.

Intermediate5 min
10

Roof System

A roof system is the complete assembly of components that covers the top of a building, providing protection from weather and contributing to its structural integrity and value.

Beginner2-3 min
11

Pest Inspection

A pest inspection is a professional examination of a property to detect the presence of wood-destroying organisms like termites and other pests, as well as conditions conducive to infestations.

Beginner2-3 min
12

Water Damage

Water damage refers to any destructive impact on a property caused by unwanted water, ranging from minor leaks to major flooding, leading to structural issues, mold, and significant repair costs for real estate investors.

Beginner3 min
13

Property Disclosure Statement

A Property Disclosure Statement is a legal document provided by a seller to a buyer, detailing known material defects and conditions of a property. It is a crucial component of real estate transactions, ensuring transparency and aiding buyer due diligence.

Intermediate5 min
14

Plumbing System

The network of pipes, fixtures, and drains within a property that handles the supply of fresh water and the removal of wastewater, crucial for property functionality and value.

Beginner2-3 min
15

Inspection Contingency

An inspection contingency is a clause in a real estate purchase agreement that allows the buyer to conduct a professional home inspection and, based on the findings, negotiate repairs, request credits, or withdraw from the contract without losing their earnest money deposit.

Intermediate5 min
16

Seller Concessions

Seller concessions are contributions made by the seller towards the buyer's closing costs, reducing the amount of cash the buyer needs to bring to the closing table. These are negotiated as part of the purchase agreement and are subject to lender-imposed limits.

Intermediate5-6 min
17

Cost to Cure

Cost to Cure is the estimated expense required to repair, replace, or restore a property to its intended condition, or to remedy identified defects, crucial for real estate investment analysis.

Intermediate5 min
18

Repair Credit

A repair credit is a financial concession from a seller to a buyer at closing, typically used to cover the cost of necessary repairs identified during a home inspection, reducing the buyer's upfront cash needed.

Beginner6 min
19

Risk Management

Risk management in real estate is the systematic process of identifying, assessing, and controlling potential threats to an investor's capital and returns, ensuring long-term asset protection and profitability.

Intermediate12-13 min
20

Radon Testing

Radon testing identifies the presence and concentration of radioactive radon gas in a property, a crucial step in real estate due diligence to protect health and property value.

Intermediate3 min