As a new homeowner, you might be excited to move into your new place and start making it truly your own. However, before you start knocking out walls or painting the rooms, make sure you schedule a home inspection first. A home inspection is essential for any new or old home purchase, and it’s your opportunity to learn about the home’s condition and what you’re paying for. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when getting your home inspected.

Mistake #1: Skipping the Inspection 🚫

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when purchasing a home is to skip the inspection altogether. This is especially true for first-time homebuyers, who may not know what to look out for when visiting potential homes. A home inspector will go over the home with a fine-tooth comb and provide an unbiased report on the condition of the property. This report can help you avoid a headache later on and can even give you a bargaining chip in negotiations with the seller.

👀A happy couple examining a home with a magnifying glass

Mistake #2: Not Being Present During the Inspection 🙈

Another common mistake is not being present during the inspection. While you don’t have to tag along with the home inspector every step of the way, it’s a good idea to at least show up at the beginning and end of the inspection. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions and get a better understanding of the report.

👉A person holding a pen and paper, ready to take notes during the inspection

Mistake #3: Choosing the Cheapest Inspector 🤑

Don’t skimp on your home inspection. A cheap inspection could lead to expensive mistakes down the line. Be sure to research the inspector and ask for referrals from friends or family if possible. Also, be sure to check their qualifications and experience in inspecting homes. It may be worth it to pay a little extra for a highly qualified inspector.

💰A person looking at a calculator with a frown on their face

Mistake #4: Not Preparing for the Inspection 📝

Before the inspection, make sure you prepare your home by decluttering and cleaning up any pets or children. The inspector needs to have access to every part of the home, including the attic, basement, and crawl space. Also, make sure the utilities are up and running, so the inspector can test the heating, cooling, and plumbing systems. If you prepare for the inspection, the process will be more efficient, and the inspector can get a better assessment of the home.

🧹A person sweeping the floor and preparing for the inspection

Mistake #5: Not Following Up on the Report 📊

After you’ve received the home inspection report, make sure you follow up on any issues found during the inspection. Don’t just assume everything is fine because you received a report. The report is only valuable if you take action on the issues listed. Follow up with the home inspector or a qualified contractor to get a better understanding of the problem and how to fix it.

📞A person on the phone talking with a contractor about fixing a problem found during the inspection

In conclusion, a home inspection can be an essential tool in your home-buying process. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your home inspection is a success and that you’re fully aware of the home’s condition before you buy. Start off on the right foot by properly preparing for and following up on the inspection report.

👍A person giving a thumbs-up in front of a new home