Great question, let us break it down for you.

After what may have been a long house hunt, a home inspection is one of the final obstacles between you and moving into your new home! A home inspection is critical for your safety and peace of mind. You will receive a thorough, in-depth visual examination of the structural and operating components performed by a trained professional. 

We recommend being a part of your home inspection process. It’s a valuable educational opportunity to see your future home through the eyes of an expert. The home inspection cost and duration vary depending on the house’s size, region, and age. Think of the inspector as a general doctor; depending on the findings, it may be necessary to seek out skilled professionals for further information and provide quotes for potential work.   

Once you understand the home’s condition, you will work with your agent to determine the repairs or concessions you can request from the seller. Repairs addressing safety are of first importance. Address all other repairs carefully, as it’s a negotiation with the sellers. 

If the list of repairs is too costly and the seller is unwilling to make concessions, you need to ask yourself if you’re willing to take them on after closing. If not, it may be right to walk away. The home inspection period can be a nail-biter, so it’s critical to partner with an agent you trust to walk you through the process!

A home seller may also request an inspection before the home is on the market. This allows the seller to set a price considering the inspection findings, correct any issues with the house before hitting the market, or merely have a pre-inspection report available for buyers informing them that the seller has nothing to hide. Here are the major components of a home inspection: 

Exterior

• Siding, trim, windows 
• Roof, chimney, flashing 
• Landscaping – Grading and how it could be affecting the foundations 
• Gutters, Downspouts -Overall condition, effects of dampness in the basement, and its ability to carry off rainwater 
• Driveways, patios, decks, porches 
• Air condition compressor 

Interior  

• Heating System 
• Plumbing systems 
• Radon  
• All visible fixtures, pipes, and drains tested for operation 
• Electrical Systems 
• Walls, floors, ceilings, windows 
• Outside entrance wiring, service panel, and visible wiring inspected
• Testing of outlets
• Attic 
• Visible roof sheathing ventilation, insulation, and framing 
• Basement, structure 
• Foundation soundness and evidence of moisture penetration