What to Expect - When You're Inspecting

Buying a home is exhilarating. It is not only a time of excitement and joy, but also a time for making decisions and to-do lists. The home inspection is a very important step in that process, but for some it can be a bit scary. Really us? No! Please don't be scared of little ol' me :)

 

Here are some facts to combat your fears!

 

The Fear: Home inspections are just plain scary.

The Fact: OK, they are only scary if you let inspection myths control your experience. The truth is, we aren't scary people and we are here to educate, not get you shaking in your boots. What makes home inspections scary for some people, is actually past experiences, disappointments or just plain nerves. The good news is that most of that can be helped by just choosing the right inspector. The rest can be helped by acknowledging the concerns you may have. If it's your first home, it's OK to be nervous, if you've had past inspections not go as you liked, it's also OK to say hey, this is a different house and a different inspection—everything is gonna be okay

 

The Fear: Maybe this house is more work than I thought.

The Fact: You might see the house differently on inspection day, then you ever have before. The home inspection is often the first time you will look at the house more “analytically” instead of “emotionally.” It can be difficult if you are not prepared for the step-by-step evaluation of the house. But if you are prepared for the slight change of perspective that the home inspection may bring, the process becomes much easier.

 

The Fear: The house is not perfect anymore.

The Fact: Ok, but rest assured, there is no such thing as a perfect house. Prepare for the fact that some defects may be found in the house, but keep in mind that every house—even a new house—has some. The inspection report and the inspector will help distinguish between big problems and small ones. Ask questions during the inspection. Think about your concerns and needs prior to that day and make sure you get the answers you require.

 

The Fear: The house is great, but the report still mentions a lot about required maintenance.

The Fact: Buying a home is similar to buying a pre-owned car. One must always expect maintenance and some unexpected repairs. No inspection can completely eliminate all risks, and all homes require maintenance, repair, and care. It is important to be comfortable with this concept prior to the inspection experience—especially those who have never owned a home before.

 

The Fear: For what they are asking for this house, it should have been flawless!

The Fact: Unfortunately, home price and home condition do not go hand-in-hand. Price has much more to do with location and the market conditions than anything else. After all, even million-dollar homes have defects. So no matter what the purchase price, avoid falling into the trap of expecting a flawless house.

 

Posted By: US INPSECT BLOG