What to Expect During a Home Inspection

Investing in property is a considerable risk that takes plenty of capital and many years of commitment. Before you purchase property, you must know what you’re getting into.

That’s where a home inspector comes in handy! Here’s what to expect from a professional home inspection.

PRICING

First, let’s talk about money. The cost of an inspection varies on the size of the home. An average home around 2,000-3,000 square feet will cost anywhere from $300 to $500.

Larger properties will cost $500-$700 to inspect thoroughly.

If you wish to have the property tested for radon or have the sewer scope tested, it may cost around $200 for each separate procedure.

NOT PASS OR FAIL

A home inspection is not on a pass or fail basis. Home inspections for a buyer’s purpose are to accurately assess whether or not the price on the home you agreed upon is worth it. Just because your home doesn’t meet an inspector’s standards doesn’t mean your property is in jeopardy of cancellation of any deals, contracts, etc.

PRE-INSPECTIONS

The seller may have a pre-inspection report ready for you to look over. However, this does not mean the inspector they hired was thorough enough or reported everything they found.

A pre-inspection is generally for the seller who wants to get more of an accurate estimate of the potential sales price. A home inspection for the buyer is equally as important, as it can expose a hidden issue that may be costly after property purchase.

WHAT’S INSPECTED?

The job of a home inspector requires excellent attention to detail. Home inspectors will take detailed notes and pictures of just about every aspect of your potential home.

Home inspectors take a look at everything from the age and state of the appliances to the plumbing and electrical. They will even spend time in your attic and basement to determine the condition of the insulation and foundation. They will check how the HVAC systems in the home are running and the age of those appliances.

Exterior components of a home are also inspected, particularly the roof and siding. However, the home inspector will not comment on anything aesthetic, only parts of the property that could spell danger or unexpected costs.

Buyer/Seller Presence During Inspection

You may ask yourself, “What are the buyer and seller’s roles during the inspection?”

Usually, the potential buyer may be present during the home inspection, but it would be awkward for the seller to be there. Additionally, having the seller present during inspection may negatively influence the experience. However, a seller may be present if they get a pre-inspection.

What are the Home Inspectors' Limits?

You may be surprised by some of the home inspector's limits during the inspection, but they exist for a good reason. The first rule, of course, is to cause no damage to the house. Secondly, a home inspector cannot offer additional services they may be craftsmen in, like an electrician, as this creates a conflict of interest.

Home Inspections When You're The Buyer/Seller

Home inspections are generally the same throughout but have different motives compared to the buyer or seller.

The Buyer

Inspecting a potential home purchase is pivotal to a sound investment. Homes may look great at surface level, but tons of hidden dangers and damages could cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair. You need to know you’re paying for a solid home at a price fair to you, and a home inspection does just that!

The Seller

An inspection as a seller is crucial to knowing any hidden damages that can drive down the price of your home. Spotting these damages during a pre-inspection helps you determine what needs repair to sell your home for maximum profit.

GET YOUR HOME INSPECTED BY TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS

Getting your potential new home inspected with a full report may take around ten days to complete, so if you’re in the process of buying a new home, don’t wait!

At DMC Home Inspections, we provide 150 points of inspection to uncover any potential problems with the home you're buying, so you can strike a deal at the fairest price to you.

Schedule your inspection online right now, or give us a call at 612-310-1692 today!