Home inspections can reveal a variety of issues that aren’t necessarily deal-breakers, but you should have an idea of what to expect so you know what to discuss with the seller or ask your agent about. A home inspector’s job is to assess the current condition of a home and provide an accurate report on its major systems. While some problems, like a broken toilet, may be easily fixed by the homeowner after the sale, other issues are more substantial and will require a lot more work, money, and time to remedy.
A home inspector examines a wide range of components, including the roof, plumbing, electrical wiring and appliances, foundation, attic, and drainage. They can also give you an approximate age for major systems like the roof, heating and cooling, and water heater to help you determine if they’re nearing their expected working lifespan.
If a system is nearing its end of life, it might be time to consider upgrading or replacing it. The should I get a home inspection can also point out areas where repairs are needed, such as sagging floors, a crack in the foundation, or old or low-quality roofing materials. This information will help you make a budget for future maintenance and repairs, and will also let you know when you should begin saving to cover replacement costs.
It’s important to note that a home is never going to be free of defects, even if it is brand new. Most homeowners will have some minor problems that need attention, but it’s not worth skipping a home inspection to avoid the cost and hassle of finding out about serious problems after you move in.
You can save money by doing your own informal inspection of the property, as described in Nolo’s Essential Guide to Buying Your First Home. However, it’s better to have a professional perform a more thorough inspection before you submit an offer and sign on the dotted line.
A major issue that isn’t addressed by a home inspection can be costly, even potentially derail the entire purchase. If the home’s plumbing doesn’t work properly, for example, or if there is an exposed electrical problem that requires immediate attention, you could face expensive repair bills or even abandon your dream home altogether.
You can also use a home inspection to negotiate with the sellers about repairs or credits. However, don’t be unreasonable in your requests. A laundry list of repairs isn’t likely to win you any friends with the seller, and you might end up with a less than desirable outcome from your negotiation. Instead, focus on major issues that will have a significant impact on the safety and longevity of your home, such as a cracked foundation, serious roof leaks, or dangerous electrical wiring. It’s also a good idea to accompany the inspector during the examination, as this will help you understand what they’re looking for and why certain problems might exist. It will also allow you to ask questions and gain a better sense of the importance of each item on the home inspector’s report.