Should I Get a Home Inspection?

One of the most common questions from home buyers – especially first time home buyers – is “Should I get a home inspection?” The answer is absolutely yes!

Once you have a signed contract on the home you have decided to buy, the next task is to get your home inspected. It is recommended that any home, even a new home, be inspected. Since buying a home is one of the most important purchases you will make in your lifetime, you need to do all you can to be sure that the house you buy is in good condition. A home inspection is conducted by a trained and licensed expert who will take a comprehensive, impartial look at the property you are planning to buy. This will include an evaluation of the home’s physical condition (i.e. the structure, construction and mechanical systems.); an identification of items that should be replaced or repaired; and an estimate of the likely usable time for major household systems.

Your home inspection usually takes place between 5 and 10 days following the execution of a contract. An inspection is typically an essential item in not only the peace of mind of the buyer but in the mortgage approval process. This inspection confirms the condition of the home at the time of inspection only and can make no assurances beyond that time. Be sure that all major aspects of the home are inspected, including a termite inspection as well as one that includes the swimming pool, spa, sprinkler systems, roof, etc.

Your presence at the home inspection is important, or you may choose to arrive near the end of the allotted time to go over findings and observations. A good inspector will take the time to go over what they saw, how they checked for problems and the condition of what was inspected. It is also a chance for you to ask questions and to learn about furnaces, water shutoffs, etc. It is recommended that a written inspection report is provided for further reference and negotiation of items needing repair.

The inspection is an important step and one that will answer many questions and ease a great deal of anxiety surrounding a home purchase.