Real Estate Agent · Miami, FL · Member since 2015 · 6 posts · 1 vote
Hi Everyone,
Just went into contract to buy a small multifamily in South Florida. Inspection period beginning soon, what are the main things you would be looking for during the inspection? Could a regular home inspector do the job or should I go for an engineer? Any thoughts/comments appreciated!
If it is all apartments, then a regular home inspector can do it, if you think most is ok, I would just ask you favorite contractor to walk though with you (for the cost of a lunch), take lots of pictures and tell the seller that you might come back with some experts if you find anything of note.
@Felipe Hofstatter same as a normal home inspection. The only difference is for you to look to make sure the units have separate FPL and water meters. Good Luck.
A regular inspector can do it however there might be fire code requirements you should be aware of, not sure if that is the same everywhere. Although the fire department does the inspection at sale it is good to have your inspector know if what you have in terms of alarms, emergency lights or sprinklers will pass that inspection.
My experience on small residential multi family (duplex, 4-plex etc) is that regular home inspector would cover everything. I had very good luck with Pillar to Post. I think they are a national company, or at least cover different states. If something comes back that needs additional inspection, it does pay to bring an expert (electrician, plumber, offer etc). Home inspectors traditionally do not know costs of repairs and cannot really give you an idea for scope of work (some may). So if the property needs some work, best to bring a handyman or GC to provide some estimates. Even your property manger may be able to provide estimate, or a fellow investor.
Another thing you can do, if you're concerned about code, is to add to contract that "property must be up to city code at closing". Normally a non-issue on residential multi family, but good to be covered.