Once a buyer has decided to make an offer on your home, it will usually be contingent upon a professional inspection of the entire property-including improvements. The home inspector looks beyond the cosmetics to make sure that the home's general systems operate properly. The inspector will also look for large repairs that are needed and report on the general condition of the home.

The standard home inspector's report will review the conditions of the home's heating and cooling system, interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; foundation, basement and visible structure. The inspector will also look for cracks in cement walls, water stains that indicate leakage and any indication of wood rot and any pest infestation.

A home inspection also points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the necessary maintenance to keep it in good shape.

I'm familiar with home inspection services and can provide you with a list of names from which to choose. For home inspection services in the Los Altos area, I can give you a recommendation for a home inspector. Another good source for finding a home inspector is to ask a friend, or perhaps a business acquaintance, who has had a home inspection and can recommend a home inspector they were satisfied with.

Remember, no home is perfect. If major problems are found, I will help you negotiate through the process.