It's easy to make sure the home you've chosen is a smart buy. By having a home inspection, the home's vital systems are checked. A home inspection allows you to purchase your home with confidence. The DeHanas Team will help you set one up after you have chosen the home you like. The DeHanas Team recommends the following minimum standards when choosing an inspector:

• Membership in ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) and adherence to its Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

• Written report at the time of inspection.

Items on the inspection report will include:

• FOUNDATIONS, BASEMENTS, AND STRUCTURES Basement floor and walls, proper drainage and ventilation, evidence of water seepage.

• EXTERIOR SIDING, WINDOWS, AND DOORS Exterior walls, windows, and doors; porches, decks, and balconies.

• ROOF Roof type and material, condition of gutters and downspouts.

• INTERIOR PLUMBING SYSTEM Hot and cold water system; the waste system and sewage disposal; water pressure and flow; and hot water equipment.

• ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Type of service, the number of circuits, type of protection, outlet grounding, and the load balance.

• CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEM Energy source, type of cooling equipment, capacity, and distribution.

• INTERIOR WALLS, CEILINGS, FLOORS, WINDOWS, and DOORS Walls, floors, ceilings, stairways, cabinets and countertops.

• ATTIC Structural, insulation, and ventilation information.

• FIREPLACE The chimney, damper, and masonry.

• GARAGE Doors, walls, floor, opener.

• APPLIANCES Includes a wide range of built-in and other home appliances, smoke detectors, and television/cable hookups.

• LOT AND LANDSCAPING Ground slope away from foundation, condition of walks, steps and driveway.