What is a home inspection?

The inspection will uncover any issues in the home that would have otherwise been unknown. You will receive a written report of the inspection. I recommend that you are present for the inspection, so that you may ask the inspector any questions.

What does “inspection period” mean?

During the inspection period, the buyer has the right to hire a professional to inspect the condition of the home. If the results on the inspection report comes back with any issues that need to be addressed, the buyer may ask the seller to cover the costs of these repairs, reduce the sales price, or fix the repairs before closing. If an agreement can not be made, the buyer has the right to back out of the contract and get the escrow deposit back with no consequences.

The home seems fine, do I really need a home inspection?

You may think the home is in perfect shape, but some of the costliest problems are difficult to spot: leaks, termite damage, foundation issues, poor ventilation, faulty wiring, and drippy appliances. A home inspection gives you the chance (before you sign on the dotted line) to have a professional inspector see if there are any problems that need to be addressed, replaced, or fixed.

If you are getting a loan, the lender will require you to obtain home insurance. The home insurance company will typically require that you have certain inspections done. In order to obtain insurance, the inspection reports will need to fit the criteria of the insurance company. This is another reason that you may need to have an inspection done.