HomeStart Inspections

6 Tips for a Successful Home Inspection

As the market shifts and home inspections start becoming the norm again, we compiled a list of tips that will help the experience to be stress free and enjoyable!

After performing 100’s of home inspections, we know what helps buyers have a positive experience. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the home buying process but we have a few tips to make your inspection go smoothly and maximize results.

Price Shouldn’t Be Your #1 Priority When Hiring an Inspector

It’s frustrating for us to hear people shopping for inspectors solely on price. While price is a factor, we think it shouldn’t be your key deciding factor. It’s easy to think that all inspections and inspectors are the same, but unfortunately, it isn’t true.  Experience, thoroughness, and attention to detail vary wildly in this profession. It’s important to find a licensed inspector with the skills necessary to find as much wrong with the home as possible so you know exactly what you’re buying. Referrals are an excellent way to ensure you are getting someone qualified for the job.

Attend the Inspection

There is no better time to learn about your home than during the inspection. This may seem like common sense, but often times home owners skip the inspection due to work or prior commitments. Thankfully, most inspectors will have appointment times to can accommodate your busy schedule. Additionally, the inspection is a great time for a “Second Look” at the home with out the restrictions of a showing. The layout is often slightly different than what you remember, and this is a great time to start planning your home!

Don’t Freak Out at Defects!

Your home inspector will find defects, probably a lot of them!  This is normal and the purpose of home inspections. Generally, most defects can be corrected. Take a deep breath and be happy it was found!  If homes were sold in perfect condition, the home inspection profession wouldn’t exist. Setting the realistic expectation that there will be problems before going to the inspection will help soften the blow when the defects are inevitably found.

Ask Questions

Now that you are attending, this is your opportunity to ask questions about your new investment! By choosing the right inspector, you will get your questions answered and feel informed moving forward. Great inspectors generally love helping home owners learn more about their home and how to keep it in top condition! Industry language can be confusing, so ask for clarification. There is no such thing as a dumb question!

Follow Up Post Report

Now that the inspection is over, it’s important to read the full report. Most reports come with a summary page which highlights only the defects. While summary pages are great for a quick review, the full report has much more detail about the home including limitations regarding what was and wasn’t inspected. Reading the full report prevents any surprises!  Dedicate an hour or two to read the full report. As you read the report, compile a list of questions for your inspector, and then schedule a time to review those with the inspector.

Categorize Defects

The home inspector likely has already categorized the significance of the defects found in your new home. However, I find it helpful for buyers to make a few additional defect lists. The first is defects that the home owner feels confident are easy fixes that they can accomplish safely such as extending downspout terminations, replacing lightbulbs, etc. Then, I encourage buyers to create a list of defects where corrections can be delayed. For example, minor cracks in concrete driveway, a few windows not functioning, etc. Lastly, make a list of what needs to be fixed immediately, such as a failed roof, electrical issues, etc. These lists will help break down the report into more manageable lists that can be tackled appropriately.

We hope these tips help you!  If you have any questions or upcoming inspection needs, we would love to help!