Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You might wonder if every step in the process is really necessary. One question that pops up a lot is: Should you get a home inspection? We’re sharing what why a home inspection matters, what it involves, and how it can save you money and stress in the long run.
A home inspection is like a checkup for a house. A trained professional, called a home inspector, looks at the property to see if anything is wrong. They check things like the roof, walls, floors, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. The goal is to find problems that might not be obvious when you walk through the home.
When you’re buying a house, it’s easy to fall in love with the pretty paint or big backyard. But looks can hide issues—like a leaky roof or bad wiring—that could cost you a lot later. A home inspection gives you a clear picture of what you’re really buying.
Getting a home inspection might seem like an extra step, but it’s a smart move for several reasons. Let’s break it down.
Homes cost a lot. If you buy one with hidden problems, you could end up spending thousands of dollars on repairs. A home inspection helps you spot those issues before you sign the papers. For example, if the inspector finds a cracked foundation, you can ask the seller to fix it or lower the price. This saves you from paying for big fixes yourself later.
Some problems in a home aren’t just expensive—they’re dangerous. Faulty wiring can start a fire. A broken furnace might leak carbon monoxide, a gas you can’t see or smell that can make you sick. A home inspector checks for these risks so you and your family can feel safe in your new home.
Even if a house looks perfect, it might not be. An inspection tells you the truth about its condition. Maybe the seller didn’t know about a problem, or maybe they hid it. Either way, you deserve to know before you buy.
Not every issue needs to be fixed right away. An inspection report can show you what might need work in a few years—like an old water heater or worn-out roof. This helps you budget and plan ahead.
If the inspection finds problems, you can use that information to talk to the seller. You might ask them to fix things or drop the price. In some cases, you could even walk away if the issues are too big. This gives you more control over the deal.
A home inspection looks at many parts of a house. Here’s what inspectors usually check:
Inspectors don’t move furniture or tear down walls, so they can’t see everything. But they’re trained to spot clues that point to bigger problems.
The best time for a home inspection is after you make an offer on a house but before you finish the sale. Most buyers include an “inspection contingency” in their offer. This means if the inspection finds big issues, you can back out of the deal without losing money.
You usually have a few days to a week to get the inspection done after your offer is accepted. Talk to your real estate agent to set it up. They can recommend a good inspector and help you understand the process.
The price of a home inspection depends on where you live and how big the house is. For a bigger home or one with extras like a pool, it might be more.
This might sound like a lot, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of a house—or the repairs you might face later. Think of it as an investment in your peace of mind.
Once the inspector finishes, they’ll give you a report. This report lists everything they found, from small stuff (like a loose doorknob) to big problems (like a broken furnace). It might include pictures, too.
Here’s what you can do next:
Ask for Repairs: If there are major issues, you can ask the seller to fix them before you buy.
Request a Lower Price: If the seller won’t fix things, you could ask for a discount to cover the repair costs.
Walk Away: If the problems are too big or the seller won’t budge, you can cancel the deal (if you have an inspection contingency).
Move Forward: If everything looks good—or the issues are small—you can go ahead with the purchase.
Your real estate agent can guide you through these choices.
In some cases, people choose not to get a home inspection. Here’s when that might happen—and why it’s risky.
In places where homes sell fast, some buyers skip inspections to make their offer stand out. Sellers like this because it speeds things up. But it’s a gamble. You might end up with a house that needs major work.
Some homes are sold “as-is,” meaning the seller won’t fix anything. An inspection can still help you know what you’re getting into, but if you skip it, you’re taking a chance.
If a house is brand new, you might think it doesn’t need an inspection. But even new homes can have mistakes—like bad plumbing or uneven floors. An inspection catches these before you move in.
Skipping an inspection might save time or money upfront, but it could cost you more later. Most experts say it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Not all inspectors are the same. Here’s how to pick a good one:
Check Credentials: Look for someone certified by a group like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI).
Read Reviews: Ask friends or your real estate agent for recommendations. Check online reviews, too.
Ask Questions: Talk to the inspector before you hire them. Ask how long they’ve been doing this and what their inspections cover.
Be There: If you can, go to the inspection yourself. You’ll see what the inspector sees and can ask questions on the spot.
A good inspector will take their time and explain things clearly.
Homes can have all kinds of issues. Here are some of the most common ones inspectors find:
These don’t always mean you shouldn’t buy the house. They just give you information to make a smart choice.
If you’re selling a home, you might wonder if you should get an inspection, too. This is called a “pre-listing inspection.” It can help you find and fix problems before buyers see the house. This might make your home sell faster or for a higher price. Plus, it shows buyers you’re honest about the condition of the property.
A home inspection isn’t required, but it’s almost always a good idea. It protects your money, keeps you safe, and helps you avoid surprises. For a few hundred dollars, you get a detailed look at one of the biggest purchases of your life. Most buyers—and experts—agree it’s worth it.
Before you decide, think about your situation. Are you in a rush? Can you afford repairs later? Talk to your real estate agent and weigh the pros and cons. In most cases, a home inspection is a small step that makes a big difference.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is when a professional checks a house for problems. They look at things like the roof, plumbing, and wiring to make sure everything is okay.
How long does a home inspection take?
It usually takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the house. Bigger homes or ones with more issues might take longer.
Do I need to be at the home inspection?
You don’t have to be there, but it’s a good idea. You can see what the inspector finds and ask questions right away.
Can a home inspection fail?
No, it doesn’t “fail.” The inspection just shows what’s wrong. You decide what to do next—like asking for repairs or walking away.
Who pays for a home inspection?
The buyer usually pays for it. It’s part of the cost of buying a home.
What if the inspection finds big problems?
You can ask the seller to fix them, lower the price, or cancel the deal if you have an inspection contingency.
Are home inspections only for old houses?
No, even new houses can have problems. An inspection is a good idea no matter how old the home is.
Can I skip a home inspection to save money?
You can, but it’s risky. You might miss big issues that cost more to fix later.
Deciding whether to get a home inspection is a big part of buying a home. It’s a simple step that can save you from expensive repairs, unsafe conditions, and buyer’s remorse. By hiring a trained inspector, you get a clear look at what you’re buying—and the power to make smart choices. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, a home inspection is a tool to protect your investment and your peace of mind. Take the time to consider it—it could be one of the best decisions you make.
Steve Ridge
Jessica Evans
CA DRE# 01998765