Illinois Buyer's Home Inspection Checklist
About this form
The Buyer's Home Inspection Checklist is a document designed for prospective homebuyers in Illinois. This checklist provides a comprehensive list of items to review when viewing a property, helping buyers gather essential information before making an offer. Unlike other forms that may focus solely on purchase agreements, this checklist allows buyers to note important observations and questions about the property during inspection, ensuring they make informed decisions.
Form components explained
- Property location details, including street, nearby schools, and transportation access.
- Checklist items such as neighborhood condition, utility availability, and area zoning.
- Space for notes to capture specific concerns or observations during the home viewing.
- Questions about nearby amenities like parks, shopping, and local services.
- Options to check on neighborhood restrictions or proposed special assessments.
When to use this document
This form should be used during initial property viewings or subsequent inspections of a home a buyer is considering. It is particularly useful before making an offer, as it helps buyers identify any potential issues or questions they may wish to discuss with the seller. It is also a valuable tool for comparing multiple properties.
Who can use this document
This checklist is intended for:
- Prospective homebuyers in Illinois who are actively looking for a property.
- Real estate agents assisting clients in their home buying process.
- Anyone seeking to ensure they are thoroughly assessing a home before making a purchase decision.
Completing this form step by step
- Enter the property's location details, including the street address and nearby amenities.
- Review each item on the checklist during the home viewing, marking 'Yes' or 'No' as applicable.
- Make notes in the provided space to record any questions or concerns about the property.
- Discuss any notable observations with the seller or real estate agent for clarification.
- Keep the completed checklist for reference when deciding on making an offer or negotiating terms.
Notarization guidance
Notarization is not commonly needed for this form. However, certain documents or local rules may make it necessary. Our notarization service, powered by Notarize, allows you to finalize it securely online anytime, day or night.
Avoid these common issues
- Overlooking important checklist items during property viewings.
- Failing to take detailed notes on observations that could impact the buying decision.
- Not reviewing the checklist with a real estate agent for expert advice.
- Assuming all checklist items are applicable without considering the specific property features.
Advantages of online completion
- Convenience of downloading and printing the checklist at any time.
- Editability to customize the checklist according to specific needs or preferences.
- Reliability of having a professionally drafted document created by licensed attorneys.
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FAQ
Chimney Inspections. Electrical Inspections. Lead-Based Paint. Heating and Air Conditioning. Wood Damage. Foundation Inspections. Pool and Spa Inspections. Roof Inspections.
Sellers have a legal obligation to either repair or disclose serious issues with the home. If the repair request is a big oneand it's not a surprise to themthey're almost always going to be required to spring for the cost or lose the sale.
A buyer and seller's real estate agents will be able to fill them in on the laws in their particular state, but in general a seller is responsible for paying to fix severe water damage or mold issues, to replace missing or broken smoke detectors, and to remedy building code violations, among other things.
Which repairs are mandatory? How much will repairs cost? Do you have to hire a professional or can you DIY the repairs? How much credit will you have to offer if you don't opt to do the repairs before closing?
It's a good idea for the buyer to attend the home inspection because it'll be the perfect chance to ask the inspector how the home's various systems work and hear about maintenance. I always encourage the buyer at the beginning of the inspection to share anything that they have questions about, Pretty says.
A home inspector will look at things like a home's foundation, structural components, roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, then provide a written home inspection report with results.Buyers should attend the inspection so they can explore their new home in detail and ask questions during the process.
Ask the seller to make the repairs themselves. Ask for credits toward your closing costs. Ask the seller to reduce the sales price to make up for the repairs. Back out of the transaction (if you have an inspection contingency in place) Move forward with the deal.
