5 Reasons to Attend Your Home Inspection

You’ve finally found what seems to be the house for you, and it’s time to move on to the next crucial step in the home buying process – the home inspection. Without an inspection, you could potentially purchase a home that needs significant repairs. Some buyers think it’s unnecessary to be present during the inspection, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Here are five reasons on why buyers should be present during their home inspections!

Get Issues Explained

One of the biggest benefits from being present during a home inspection is the opportunity to hear clear explanations directly from the inspector’s mouth. After the inspection, the inspector writes a detailed report about his findings, but these reports can also raise a lot of questions from the buyer. However, if a buyer is present and talks to the inspector, the inspector can provide any needed clarity to the buyer.

Get Educated and Ask Questions

Being present during a home inspection also gives buyers the chance to ask the inspector questions. For example, buyers may have questions about estimated life spans for house appliances. While inspectors cannot guarantee how long a system in the home will last, they can provide their professional recommendation which assists buyers on whether to ask the seller to replace certain items. The inspector can also share some handy maintenance tips and advice with you as they complete the inspection which is great for first-time home buyers who are used to the perks of renting.

Get Acquainted with the House

Shadowing a home inspector also gives a buyer the opportunity to become familiar with the house. This means learning the locations of shut-off valves, electrical panels, as well as other important aspects about the house. Upon taking a closer look at a property, buyers can then decide whether this is the right home for them.

Get Advice on Concerns

When walking through the house with the home inspector, a buyer might notice certain things that might be a red flag to a larger issue. For example, they might notice a crack in the wall or if a room has a slightly different color paint in one section of the ceiling which could signal a hidden water leak or other damage. While home inspectors are certainly professionals in their industry, buyers can serve as a second pair of eyes that can aid the inspector.

Get the Most from the Inspection

Even if you did your research on selecting a professional home inspector, it’s good to be present to check their work. Depending on the size of the property, a home inspection can take anywhere from two to four hours. Buyers pay for these inspections out of their own funds, which can cost between $300 and $500. By being present, buyers can shadow the inspector, check for thoroughness and ensure the inspector is not rushing through the process.

Ready to begin your journey towards home ownership? Give one of our experienced loan officers a call today!