Real NEastate: Is it OK to buy an as-is home?

Q: I saw a nice house for a great price I’d like to buy in Walton Park but the seller says it’s “as-is.” It looks fine to me, but does that mean there is something wrong with it?

A: One of the reasons the price may be so desirable is because the seller is looking for a buyer who is willing to overlook the problems for the price. Or, in some cases, “as-is” can mean that the homeowner is unable for some reason, financially or physically, to make any repairs should a buyer request them.

No house is perfect. The best way to find out how much more money, if any, you’ll need to spend on home repairs is to get a home inspection. When your real estate agent is writing your offer, make sure you elect the ability to perform inspections so you can find out.

Inspections are highly recommended for all real estate sales. There are several inspections a buyer can elect. Among them are home inspections, environmental hazards (like mold), wood infestation and radon.

A home inspector can tell you everything you need to know about your future home. A good, detailed home inspection report is always long, even in newer homes. Sometimes the seller does not even know about potential defects in their home and a trained professional is needed to asses the property.

Find a good, local inspector. Ask for recommendations and go to the American Society of Home Inspectors website.

Stacey McCarthy is a real estate agent with the McCarthy Group of Keller Williams. Her Real NEastate column appears every Wednesday on NEastPhilly.com. See others here. Read other NEast Philly columns here.