Should I get a home inspection?

A careful mind always answers “yes” but under certain market conditions, some homebuyers may be tempted to bypass this critical step in the purchasing process. It could be a competitive seller’s market, or the immediate “feels” you get when you find a home that could be “the one.” From the moment you walked through the front door, you knew it had to be yours. The walk-in closet, open-concept plan and lush backyard are exactly what you’ve been dreaming of, and may be enough to overlook the leaking faucet in the bathroom and the strange smell wafting up from the basement.

Sometimes when viewing a home, it is easy to let staging get the best of us. We get so caught up in the pretty wrapping that we forget to look inside to see what makes the home tick.

It is a classic example of never judging a book by its cover, and can be easily solved with a home inspection. When buyers put in an offer, there is the option to insert a home inspection clause. When you hire a professional home inspector, you can save yourself time, stress, and avoid potential financial risk by proactively identifying any issues within the inner workings of the home. The home inspector will do a visual inspection of the structure and components of the home to ensure everything is performing correctly and is in safe working condition.

The home inspector will pay special attention to the following areas of the home:

• Roof
• Ventilation
• Fireplace
• Plumbing
• Electrical
• Appliances
• Exterior
• HVAC
• Structure

How much does a home inspection cost, and who pays?

The cost of a home inspection will vary depending on factors including the age, size, and location of the home. Always make sure you choose your home inspector carefully by doing your research and taking a close look at their qualifications and credentials. Choosing a reputable inspector could save you from running into unplanned and often costly issues in your new home.