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So, you booked a home inspection. And like most people, you probably have some questions. There are some things your home inspector might avoid saying directly because it’s not, well…"politically correct." However, here’s a look at some things they would like for your to understood before your home inspection.
In a Competitive Market, Sellers Might Refuse Repairs
When you’re buying in a hot market where multiple offers are common, don’t be surprised if the seller doesn’t agree to any repairs.
Nobody Is Going To Read The Report To You
It’s crucial that you take the time to thoroughly review and understand your inspection report. It’s YOUR responsibility to make sure you understand your new home. And if you do read something you don't understand, call your inspector and ask him to explain it to you until do you. A good inspector will always take the time to do that for you.
Home Inspectors Don’t Offer Buying Advice
Your inspector won’t tell you whether or not to purchase the home. That decision is up to you. The best person to ask for advice on that is your realtor. It's what they're paid to do and they're far better equipped to help you make that decision than we are.
You Decide What Repairs to Request
While your real estate agent can provide guidance, the choice of what to ask the seller to fix is ultimately yours.
EVERYTHING Can Be Fixed
With sufficient money, time, and patience, most issues identified in the inspection can be resolved.
No Need to Take Notes During the Inspection
Your inspector’s report will be detailed, so there’s no need to write down everything that’s said during the inspection and consultation at the end.
Perfect Homes Don't Exist
Every house has its imperfections. I've never seen a perfect house yet. They don't exist. Don’t let minor issues scare you away from a potentially great home.
Inspectors Aren’t X-Ray Machines
Keep in mind that inspectors can only evaluate what they can see. They can’t assess hidden issues behind walls.
Let Your Inspector Work Without Distractions
If you plan to be present for the entire inspection, it’s best to allow the inspector to focus entirely on their work without distractions. You can ask your questions once the inspection is complete.
Don't Bring All Your Extended Family To The Inspection
The inspection isn’t a good time for your family to join and ask the inspector questions the whole time. This takes their focus away from the job you’re paying them to do!
Inspections Are Not Pass/Fail
A home inspection isn’t about passing or failing. It’s also not the same as a code inspection.
No Inspector is Infallible
Even the most experienced inspectors might miss something. It’s impossible to catch every potential problem, especially in a 2-3 hour window.
Expect Things To Break After Moving In
Something will inevitably break after you move in to your new home. Inspectors aren’t fortune tellers and we cannot predict what will happen down the road.
Inspections Are Visual and Limited
Inspectors won’t be moving furniture or boxes. The inspection is confined to what’s visible.
Inspectors Are Generalists, Not Specialists
While inspectors are very knowledgeable about many aspects of a home, they are not "specialists" in every field. That isn't to say we don't all have our stronger areas of knowledge than others. Especially those with trade backgrounds. An inspector with a background in roofing and framing for example is going to know a little more than just the general facts about those areas of the home. But generally speaking, we are generalists. Don’t expect a comprehensive report on your furnace or AC unit – that’s what HVAC contractors are for. Our job is to know enough to be able to tell you the issues we can see and whether or not you need to call a specialist for something that is found in the home.
The Bottom Line
Many homebuyers don’t fully understand what a home inspection entails. Our goal is to ensure you’re well-prepared by the time your inspection day arrives.
A home inspection provides a visual snapshot of the current condition of your property and its major systems. It equips you with the information you need not only to negotiate effectively with the seller but also to plan for the ongoing maintenance and costs of homeownership.
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