Are you in good hands?

Is the real estate market and demand slow, or are other forces making it seem as such? I ask this question as I have continued to see buyers and sellers come to terms on price. There is a good supply and a good demand. Why then are so many deals stumbling to close or not closing at all.
The early 2000's were a time of loosey goosey financing, we have all heard that story. What other industries were following suit and now have to bring in the reigns? The insurance industry to name one. Two of my most recent deals were, or are being threatened by insurance hang ups. The days of minimal questioning and answers like "it has breakers" are no longer acceptable. Age of furnace, roof, electrical, potential for knob and tube wiring, lead pipes, radon, and a laundry list of other concerns, are now the concerns of insurance companies. When you make the call for a new policy, be sure to answer honestly, and at the same time, do not answer questions they do not ask. They will be strict enough regarding your policy without you offering additional information and potentially raising additional issues. The irony is that even if company A now handles the policy, they may not be willing to renew it.

Lenders too are beginning to get involved in the inspection process, asking to see copies of inspection reports and allowing underwrites to call attention to defect or potential issues.

If you had an inspection, which I suggest you do, you know what you are getting into and can take the responsibility to make things right after you buy the home, on your time line, not the mandate of an insurer or third party.