Home Inspection - Before You Sign, Get It In Print

Benefits of Having a Home Inspection Done

Many offers today to buy real estate are contingent on the completion a home inspection. Some people however opt out because the house appears 'sound'.

So should homeowners bother with a home inspection or should they trust their eyes and instincts?

For most potential homeowners and future home insurance policy holders the answer is yes. Having a home inspected prior to the purchase of the home has its advantage. The obvious reason for a home inspection is of course the home itself. Unless you can write a check for the entire amount of the home you'll be borrowing the money from a banking institution and probably having a down payment. With most individuals money tied up in closing costs the last thing a new owner can afford is a new plumping system, or even more costly, structural repairs. A poor foundation or termite infestation can cost a homeowner thousands upon thousands of dollars. Buying a poorly constructed house not only takes money but also is an inconvenient, taxing experience for owners who feel they are fixing one thing after another.

Home inspectors aren't licensed in many states like contractors or real estate agents are. That means you'll have to find a good one. Ask for referrals and seek out more than one inspector. Real estate agent may refer you to a qualified inspector but agents are usually paid only after the sale is completed. An agent could steer you to a less-than-thorough home inspector to insure a sale so it's best to do your homework on the inspectors you consider.

In truth, the only people that should consider foregoing a home inspection are home inspectors and contractors. These individuals already know what to look for and they usually know costs if replacement and repairs are needed. However, it never hurts to have a 'second set of eyes' to look things over no matter who you are.