Do i need a real estate attorney and inspector to buy a new home in Southern CA?
The State of California has building codes and builders are required to comply with them. Don’t worry too much. Get a home inspector and he/she will tell you if the home you are buying is up to codes. A home inspection will cost you about $350. It depends on the size of the house. Attorneys charge a lot of money. $250 per hour seems to be a going rate. If you want an honest advice, hiring one would be a waste of money. You are buying a house for the first time and I understand your concerns. However, don’t freak out too much over the process. Read the contract yourself and see if there is something that really bothers you. Then you can ask a Realtor. Make a use of free services you are getting from a real estate agent. Keep in mind that many buyers neglect to check the pre-payment penalty on their loan. It’s something you should know about. I disagree with Clifford G. Since you are buying a house for the first time, you need a professional guidance. Congratulations on you purchase.
