Having a survey done is recommended even though lenders typically do not require it. A survey is performed by a registered land surveyor and is a drawing of the real property that shows the property boundary lines, the size of the real property, any improvements located on the real property, all set-back lines required by local zoning or subdivision restrictions, the location of any easements, and any encroachments. The boundary lines of a survey begin at a common point and trace the border of the property using a metes and bounds description. A metes and bounds description is numerical distances measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds combined with directional calls.
A survey advises the buyer of any encroachments or violations that currently exist on the real property and help locate where improvements (home, swimming pool, fence) to the real property should be located before they are installed.
A home inspection is advisable because it lets the buyer know the physical condition of the home before the closing. A home inspection is usually done by a certified and trained professional. The home inspection is limited in scope and is non-invasive. A home inspector will check the structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, basement, and other areas of the home to determine faulty building practices, items that require major repairs, items that are general maintenance issues, as well as some fire and safety issues.
A termite inspection should be performed to determine the existence of active or previous infestation of subterranean termites and other wood-destroying organisms. The inspection results will be shown on a termite report that is a standard Georgia form that discloses if there is any earth-to-wood contact, if there were any areas of the structure that were not inspected, and if it appears that any previous treatment has been performed. The termite letter limits any liability that the termite inspection company may have and the specifics can be found on the back. Many lenders require a termite inspection report dated within 30 days of the date of the closing. If the lender does not require a termite inspection report, then the buyer will typically be required to sign a termite inspection hold harmless agreement.
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