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Home inspections are certainly an important part of buying a home -- what you don't know can hurt you. But home inspection is also a valuable part of home ownership -- and by doing your own review of major systems in your home at least once a year, you can preserve your investment and make living more comfortable.

More than seven million people will buy a new or existing home this year. While the majority of homeowners are on the right track with obtaining a home inspection for buying, selling and maintenance purposes, the difference in quality, and therefore, the protection of a homeowners’ financial interests, can best be realized when the inspection is performed by an experienced, professional home inspector.

“April is the perfect time for a home inspection,” said ASHI President Joe Corsetto. The busy buying and selling season is not yet in full swing, and it is just after the winter months when weather can be especially tough on a home.”

Spring is also a time when homeowners begin annual cleaning rituals and start preparing for summer activities or even a home purchase or sale. Whatever the reason, consumers in the market for a home inspection need to remember that the person chosen to do the inspection is just as important as the inspection itself.

Corsetto urges customers to hire an ASHI Inspector so they can be sure that the inspection includes the following major areas outlined in the ASHI Standards of Practice:

• Structure-- including basements and crawl spaces
• Exterior Surfaces-- including siding, decks and grading of soil
• Roof Coverings
• Plumbing Systems
• Electrical Systems
• Heating and Air Conditioning Systems
• Interior Surfaces and Components
• Insulation and Ventilation
• Fireplaces and Chimneys

You can learn more about these areas by taking an audio-guided Virtual Home Inspection at www.ASHI.org.

This online tool simulates an interactive tour of a home’s 10 major systems, in accordance with ASHI’s Standards of Practice, providing an overview of each area, along with photos depicting common problems and defects. Although not meant to replace an inspection of their home, the tour provides great information for first time home buyers, sellers or people interested in learning more about a house and what to expect from a professional home inspection.

Website: www.ASHI.org

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NOTE to my readers: We provide resource links to help you protect and nurture your natural resources. Tip: when you contact suppliers in person, online, by phone or email...please ask them about alternatives that are sustainable, green, or habitat-healthy. By asking, we advocate for better protection of our natural resources. Thank you, Carolyn.