Foreclosures can be great deals or expensive mistakes. An inspection shows you the real condition of a bank-owned home before you commit.
Foreclosed and bank-owned homes often come with attractive prices, but they're usually sold as-is, with little or no information from the seller about the property's history. Many have sat vacant for months, sometimes without regular maintenance, heat or anyone checking on them.
A foreclosure inspection from John Killen focuses on the problems that can turn a bargain into a money pit: roof leaks, plumbing failures, water intrusion and other issues that can cause real financial loss. John evaluates the home's major systems and components and documents everything with photos.
With a detailed report delivered the same day, you can decide whether the home is worth it, how much to offer and how much to budget for repairs before you're committed.
Homes that sit empty are vulnerable to problems that can go unnoticed for months.
Roof leaks and moisture problems that spread without anyone there to notice.
Leaks, failed fixtures and damage from systems left unattended.
Missing shingles, flashing failures and deferred roof maintenance.
Systems and components that haven't been serviced or repaired in a long time.
When a home goes through foreclosure, the previous owners may not have been able to keep up with repairs, and the lender usually knows little about the property's condition. Add months of vacancy, and small problems can grow into major ones.
Because most foreclosures are sold as-is, you typically won't be able to ask for repairs. That makes knowing the condition up front even more important. An inspection helps you avoid overpaying and build a realistic repair budget into your offer.
For investors and owner-occupants alike, a foreclosure inspection is one of the smartest ways to protect your money.
Foreclosure inspections focus on the issues that matter most for an as-is purchase.
In most cases, yes. Even when a property is sold as-is, buyers can usually arrange an inspection during the due diligence period. Check with your real estate agent about the specific terms of the sale.
They're usually sold as-is, the seller often knows little about the home's history, and many have been vacant for months, which can allow leaks and other problems to go unnoticed.
Some systems can't be fully evaluated without water, gas or electricity. When possible, ask your agent to have utilities turned on before the inspection so John can check as much as possible.
Yes. John inspects foreclosures for both investors and buyers who plan to live in the home. See our Investor Property Inspections page for more.
The same day, so you can make your decision quickly in a competitive market.
From your first phone call to your finished report, here's exactly what to expect when you hire John Killen Home Inspections.
Call, text or email John at 256-335-0028 or request your inspection online. Add radon testing or a whole-house thermal scan if you'd like.
John inspects the home from the roof to the foundation, using thermal imaging when needed to verify hidden issues.
When the inspection is finished, John encourages you to walk the home with him. He'll show you what he found, answer your questions and offer practical advice about repairs.
You receive a detailed, easy-to-read report with high-quality photos and clear descriptions the same day.
State of Alabama Certified • Licensed & Insured • Same-Day Reports • Thermal Imaging & Radon Testing • Serving Florence & the Shoals