Should I Have a Home Inspection?

So, you've decided to purchase a home. This is likely the biggest purchase of your life. Whether you've never purchased a home before or have purchased several over the years, there can be some stress involved and a lot of questions to be answered before the home purchase is completed. One of those questions is whether or not to have the home inspected.

While many things are required in order to purchase a home, a home inspection is typically not required by the lender. You might ask yourself, "Can't I save the money and skip the inspection?" Yes, you can; but is that a wise decision? Whether you're spending $50,000, $500,000, or even more on your new home, a home inspection is a very small expense compared to the cost of the home that you are purchasing. Most home inspections are priced based on the size of the home and average from about $300 - $500.

How can a home inspection help you? I have inspected almost 5000 homes, and I have yet to see the perfect home. Most homes do not have major problems, but perhaps some deferred maintenance issues, some minor safety issues, a minor electrical or plumbing problem, etc. Most of these problems are normally easily correctable. In this situation, you can proceed with the home purchase having peace of mind knowing that the home that you are purchasing is in good condition and has no serious issues. On the other hand, I occasionally find a major issue with the home, such as a foundation problem, a leaking roof, serious plumbing problems, an air conditioner that needs to be replaced, etc. In this case the inspection can save you many times the cost of the inspection.

A home inspection is a non-invasive inspection only, so only things that can be seen can be inspected. During an inspection, the inspector will inspect almost every system in the home. The foundation, roof, attic, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems will all be inspected. Most appliances will be turned on and inspected. The inspector will also inspect items such as the floors, ceilings, walls, doors, and windows. Keep in mind that no home inspector or home inspection is perfect; however, most problems will be found since inspectors are trained to look for signs of the not-so-obvious problem as well as those that are in plain sight.

If you are in the market to purchase a home, think very seriously about having the home inspected before you move forward with your contract. It could potentially save you money and headaches. Talk to your real estate agent; do some research online; and talk to friends and family who have purchased a home recently. All of these sources should be able to guide you in the right direction when it comes to having your potential new home inspected.

Mike Morgan

Professional Home Inspector and Owner of Morgan Inspection Services

TREC # 6231

325-998-4663