Attending the home inspection is one of the most critical steps in buying a new home. This is a significant financial investment with long-term implications, so ensuring the home is in good condition is essential. We strongly encourage all buyers to attend the home inspection in person.
While you’ll receive a written report after the inspection, it doesn’t provide the same clarity as seeing the issues firsthand and asking follow-up questions. Unless you’re highly knowledgeable about home construction, it’s easy to misinterpret the report—getting anxious about minor issues like ungrounded outlets while overlooking more serious problems like water damage in the basement.
Tips for Attending the Home Inspection
- Plan for the Duration
- Condos: Inspections typically take about 2 hours.
- Single-family homes and multi-unit buildings: Expect the inspection to take around 3 hours.
- Dress Appropriately
- Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes. You may need to enter basements or attics to inspect potential issues.
- Understand the Limitations
- Inspectors can only identify visible defects. They cannot assess hidden issues, such as those behind walls (e.g., plumbing or electrical problems).
- A “clean” inspection report doesn’t guarantee the home is problem-free—it only means there are no visible concerns.
- Ask Questions
- Don’t hesitate to ask the inspector for clarification. Understanding whether an issue is minor or a costly repair is crucial.
- Bring a Tape Measure
- Take room measurements during the inspection, as you might not be able to return until the final walkthrough.
- Include Family and Friends
- If you want input on the property from friends or family, bring them to the inspection.
- Coordinate with Contractors
- If you’re planning renovations, arrange for contractors, painters, or flooring professionals to visit during the inspection to provide estimates.
- Payment for the Inspector
- Most inspectors require payment at the end of the inspection, so bring a checkbook or confirm accepted payment methods.
- Review the Inspection Report
- You’ll typically receive the inspection report via email within 2 days. Forward it to us as soon as you receive it so we can review and discuss potential issues to negotiate with the seller (e.g., repairs or closing cost credits).
- Understand the Purpose of the Inspection
The inspection focuses on:
Safety issues
Structural integrity
Functionality of major systems and appliances (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, electrical).
Not the focus: Cosmetic concerns like paint color, minor dents, or routine maintenance (e.g., cleaning gutters). Unless you’re purchasing new construction, no home will be perfect. Our priority is safety and functionality.