Avoid the Pitfalls

by
HAROLD CHU

The home is typically one of the most expensive purchases that one makes here in Hawaii. I have, for years, cautioned people to spend some money prior to their purchase to minimize their risks. It may save you thousands of dollars.

I strongly recommend that before your purchase any residence, you have the property inspected by a thorough and competent home inspection service. There are many such some inspection services, but I would like to refer one company for your consideration.

The name of this company is AMERISPEC Home Inspections Services. The principal is Mr. Lance Luke. The address and telephone number are 3632-A Salt Lake Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818, (808) 423-7529. Mr. Luke is known in the industry as someone who is very thorough in his inspection and his costs for inspection are very competitive with other inspectors who are less qualified.

If you have property that is situated on a hillside or if there are any concerns with respect to foundations, soils, water or seepage problems, I would strongly recommend that you hire a soil engineer. Again there are many competent soil engineers, but I would recommend the following individual and company for your consideration: Glen Y.F. Lau, Pacific Geotechnical Engineers, Inc., 429-B Waiakamilo Road, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96817. Their numbers are (808) 841-8024 and fax at (808) 848-5102. The fees for their services are rather modest when compared to the size of your investment.

The important thing when purchasing a home is to look beyond the view, the color of the house, the number of bedrooms, etc. Problems related to the structure or soundness of the house can cause substantial damages that substantially reduce the value of your investment. Don't let your dream home become a financial nightmare.

Copyright © 2009 by Harold Chu. All rights reserved.

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.