A home inspection is important for home buyers because it allows them to have a professional inspector evaluate the home they plan to buy. It is usually done before purchasing a home to assess its condition professionally. On the other hand, sellers opt to have a home inspection completed before listing their home for sale. A home inspection helps you identify the potential problems of the property you own if you are the seller. A home inspection gives buyers the needed information to help you with the upkeep after moving in. Through the assessment, you will have a better understanding of the real condition of the house. Based on the findings, you can ask the seller to pay for the repairs or make adjustments before closing the deal. However, if the problem is significant, you can decide to pull out the purchase entirely. For sellers, a home inspection is a big help to make wise decisions, especially during negotiation.A home inspection can be costly; you have to get the best out of it. Here are some of the home inspection mistakes that you should be aware of to get the most out of your home inspection:
Not Doing Any Research About the Inspector
The inspection is only as good as the inspector doing it. Many home buyers rely on recommendations. Although there is nothing wrong with that, as home buyers, you should also be doing your part in researching the home inspection company recommended to you. The first thing that you have to make sure of is that the home inspection company and the individual inspector are licensed and have experience and good reviews. To know more about them, you can ask the following questions:
How long have you been inspecting homes?
How many inspections have you done?
What are your qualifications, certifications, and training?
What was your job before you were a home inspector? (An inspector should be familiar with home construction, so a background as a contractor or home builder can be helpful.)
The cheapest option can be tempting; however, a good home inspection will surely save you a lot of money in the long run.
Not Attending the Inspection
Although it is not required, attending the inspection is a smart move for home buyers and sellers. A home inspection report isn’t enough to give you the full picture of the house’s condition. It is better to see the house for yourself. By doing so, you can also ask questions on the spot to better understand the issues that the house might have.Some home inspectors will even sit with you afterward to explain things and answer your questions. The home inspection might take an entire morning or afternoon, so set aside enough time for it.
Not Reading the Inspection Report
The home inspection report contains the findings and the recommendations that your professional home inspector has. Even though you’ve attended the inspection, read through the written report. Ideally, the written report should be clear and concise. If you have a hard time understanding, do not hesitate to inquire about your inspector.
Not Preparing the Home
For home inspectors to be able to do their job well, the homeowner should do their part in preparing the home. The homeowner must ensure that the inspector can pass through the attic or the basement. They also should have access to all the spaces in the house to make sure that the inspection is done successfully.
Key Takeaway
Avoid these mistakes to appreciate what home inspection brings to the table fully. Don’t let these mistakes be part of your next home inspection appointment.
