AGING APPLIANCES – AN INSPECTOR’S PERSPECTIVE

As home inspectors, we have seen firsthand how long various household appliances typically last. When you buy a new home a common question is: how old are these appliances? And, how long can I expect it to last? Here’s a general guide on the lifespan of common household appliances and tips on how to extend […]

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TOP HOME INSPECTION MISTAKES

It is no mystery these days that home inspections are considered one of the important steps in the home-buying process.  Back when I (Chuck) purchased my first two homes, home inspections weren’t required or recommended.  Now it’s standard practice.  Not only is it important for the home buyer, but the home sellers equally benefit. The […]

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ATTIC INSPECTIONS

The attic which is often out of sight, out of mind, is a critical component of your home. It houses essential systems and can reveal potential problems that could impact the entire structure. That’s why as home inspectors we spend a considerable time examining this often-forgotten space. Ever wonder what we’re looking for? Keep reading. […]

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KEEPING YOUR DISHWASHER CLEAN

As a home inspector, we always take a peak at the dishwasher.  While some shine like new, others harbor hidden grime that can impact performance and even the lifespan of the appliance. Admittedly, cleaning the dishwasher is not at the top of my priority list. In fact, I (Chuck) usually leave that to my wife! […]

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CLEANING YOUR FRONT LOADING WASHING MACHINE

As home inspectors, we see a lot of household appliances.  This week while our daughter was visiting she asked how long it had been since we’d cleaned our front-loading washing machines.  My wife and I had to admit that it had been a very long time.  While front-loading machines are now extremely common because they’re […]

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KEEPING YOUR BASEMENT DRY: PART 2

As we mentioned in our last blog, the rainy season can bring on certain problems with water in the basement.  We see it all the time during our home inspections. There are things you can do in your home to prevent this problem and keep your basement dry.  Here’s Part 2.  If you missed Part […]

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KEEPING YOUR BASEMENT DRY DURING THE RAINY SEASON

What a spring we’ve had! Rain, rain, and more rain! We are here today to share some insights on a crucial topic, especially with the increasingly frequent torrential rains we’ve been experiencing: How to keep your basement dry. Here is Part 1. Having water issues in basements is a common concern, but with a few […]

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Can You Pass or Fail a Home Inspection?

For over 11 years we’ve walked through countless homes, uncovering hidden issues and providing crucial insights to homebuyers. Occasionally we get asked by the homebuyer, “Can a homebuyer pass or fail a home inspection?” Let’s delve into this topic and shed light on what buyers need to know about serious safety defects. Can You Pass […]

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What to Expect at Your Home Inspection

You’ve scheduled your home inspection.  The big day is drawing close.  Now what can you expect? As experienced home inspectors, we understand that this step can feel pretty daunting for many homebuyers. But our goal is to make it not quite so overwhelming.  A home inspection is your ally in making an informed decision about […]

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First-Time Home Buyers Guide to Home Inspections

As seasoned home inspectors, we’ve had the privilege of guiding thousands of Des Moines area home buyers through the exciting journey of buying their first home. If you’re considering purchasing a home for the first time, it’s an exhilarating time filled also with anticipation and a little fear.  It’s also a time of dreams of […]

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