Home Inspections 101: What to Expect and Look Out For
A home inspection is a crucial step in the buying process, providing insight into a home’s condition before finalizing your purchase. Here’s what to expect from your inspection and how to make the most of it.
Why Inspections Matter
Inspections reveal potential issues, from structural damage to faulty electrical systems. By understanding a home’s condition, you can avoid costly repairs or even renegotiate the sale terms.
Key Areas to Inspect
A thorough inspection will cover roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, and foundation. It’s also wise to have separate tests for things like pests, radon, or mold if relevant. I ALWAYS recommend buyers do a full home inspection + termite (wood destroying insect) inspection, Sewer Line Scope, Radon Gas Test, Mold Testing, and a Structural Engineer evaluation! This will cover it all and be a more in depth approach to knowing the homes overall condition. Prepare to pay around $1300 for a full scope inspection with all of these included. My favorite local and trustworthy Home Inspection company is Golden Homes Inspections, the owner Dev is awesome!
Don’t get caught up on the small details - There are so many items that will get flagged during a home inspection that are totally common depending on the age and location of the home. Don’t sweat over the small things like settlement cracks, burnt out light bulbs, minor wood rot on the exterior, a loose toilet, dry wall damage, outdated paint and flooring/cosmetic issues, etc. We want to focus all of our attention on any MAJOR issues like water entry/water damage, mold, high levels of radon gas, termite activity and extensive termite damage, broken sewer line / sewer backup issues. extensive plumbing issues / active leaks, a leaky old roof, non-functioning HVAC units (Water Heater, Air Conditioner, Furnace), foundation issues that will require repairs like bracing, anchoring, or excavation work to re-stabilize the walls, and any heath hazards and electrical hazards.
What to Do After the Inspection
After the inspection, you’ll receive a report detailing the findings. Use this to discuss repairs with the seller or, in extreme cases, to reconsider the purchase if the issues are significant.
Working with a qualified inspector ensures you have all the facts to make an informed buying decision.