What Is Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a professional examination of a property's physical condition, including the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more. It's typically done after your offer is accepted and gives you a detailed report of any issues.
Key Facts
- Home inspections typically cost $400-$700 and take 2-4 hours.
- The inspection is for your benefit — it's optional but strongly recommended.
- Common issues found: roof damage, plumbing leaks, electrical problems, foundation cracks.
- You can negotiate repairs, credits, or a lower price based on inspection findings.
- An inspection is different from an appraisal — it's about condition, not value.
Real-World Example
Your inspector finds the roof needs replacement ($15,000) and there's a plumbing issue ($3,000). You ask the seller to credit you $18,000 at closing or reduce the price. They agree to a $12,000 credit. Without the inspection, you'd have inherited these problems.
Why It Matters
A home inspection can save you from buying a money pit. It's a few hundred dollars that could reveal tens of thousands in hidden problems. Never skip it — even in a competitive market, your inspection contingency is your safety net.
En Español
Una inspección de vivienda es un examen profesional de la condición física de una propiedad, incluyendo la estructura, techo, plomería, electricidad, sistema de climatización y más. Típicamente se hace después de que tu oferta es aceptada y te da un informe detallado de cualquier problema.