Buying a home can be stressful, and the inspection is a crucial step. To help you navigate this process, we're revealing insider tips from home inspectors themselves – things they wish every buyer knew!

Before the Inspection:

• Manage Expectations: In a hot market, sellers may not budge on repairs. Be prepared to prioritize your concerns.

• Knowledge is Power: Don't rely on others to interpret the report. Read it thoroughly and understand the findings.

• The Final Decision is Yours: The inspector's role is to provide information, not to tell you whether to buy.

• You're in the Driver's Seat: Work with your agent, but ultimately you decide which repairs to request.

• Perfection is a Myth: Every house has flaws. Focus on major issues, not minor imperfections.

During the Inspection:

• Give Them Space: Let the inspector concentrate. Save your questions for the end.

• Minimize Distractions: Bringing the whole family can disrupt the inspection.

• It's Not a Pass/Fail Test: Home inspections assess the current condition, not code compliance.

• Inspectors Aren't Mind Readers: Hidden problems may exist. Things break unexpectedly – that's part of homeownership.

• Surface Level Only: Inspectors can't move furniture or see through walls. Their assessment is limited to what's visible.

Understanding the Scope:

• Generalists, Not Specialists: Inspectors have broad knowledge but aren't experts in every field. For in-depth assessments of specific systems (like HVAC), you'll need specialized contractors.

• A Moment in Time: The inspection reflects the home's condition on that particular day. Issues can develop later.

The Big Picture:

A home inspection is like a snapshot of your potential home's health. It helps you:

• Make Informed Decisions: Understand the home's condition and potential issues.

• Negotiate Effectively: Address necessary repairs with the seller.

• Plan for the Future: Budget for maintenance and repairs down the road.

By understanding the home inspection process and what to expect, you'll be empowered to make confident decisions and embark on your homeownership journey well-prepared!