12 Things Homebuyers Absolutely Need to Know About Their Home Inspection
You’ve found the house, your offer was accepted, and now it’s time for the home inspection. This is one of the most important steps in the process but a lot of buyers go in without knowing what to expect.
Here’s what you absolutely need to know to get the most out of your inspection and avoid costly surprises later.
1. The Home Inspection Is For You
It’s not a formality. It’s not just a checkbox. This is your chance to understand the true condition of the home you’re about to invest in. Take it seriously it could save you thousands.
2. Inspectors Don’t “Pass or Fail” Homes
There’s no grade. The inspector isn’t deciding whether the home is “good” or “bad” they’re just giving you the facts. It’s up to you to decide what’s acceptable or not.
3. We Can’t See Everything (And We Don’t Guess)
We inspect what we can see and safely access. That means we don’t open walls or ceilings, and we won’t guess what’s going on behind them. If we suspect a hidden issue, we’ll recommend a specialist.
4. You Should Attend the Inspection—But Don’t Hover
Being there gives you a better understanding of the home than just reading the report. But give your inspector space to work. Ask questions at the end they’ll be happy to walk you through everything.
5. Read the Whole Report (Yes, the Whole Thing)
It’s long for a reason. Every detail matters, even the small ones. If something is confusing, reach out and ask your inspector to clarify it’s part of the service.
6. Most Issues Aren’t Dealbreakers
A long report doesn’t mean the house is a disaster. Most homes have a list of minor issues such as loose outlets, missing caulk, or dirty filters. Look for major concerns like foundation movement, roof damage, or electrical problems.
7. New Homes Need Inspections Too
Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s perfect. We’ve seen brand new homes with serious oversights such as plumbing that wasn’t connected, poor wiring, missing insulation. Always get it checked.
8. The Inspector Doesn’t Tell You Whether to Buy
They’ll tell you what’s wrong, what’s risky, and what needs attention. But the final decision is up to you. If you’re unsure, talk with your agent or bring in a contractor for estimates.
9. Don’t Expect the Seller to Fix Everything
The inspection isn’t a to-do list for the seller. Focus on health, safety, and major system issues. Cosmetic stuff? Plan to handle that yourself after closing.
10. Budget for Repairs—Even in “Move-In Ready” Homes
No home is perfect. Even if it looks great, there may be deferred maintenance or worn-out systems. Set aside some money for fixes after you move in.
11. Inspections Can Uncover Dealbreakers (And That’s a Good Thing)
Sometimes, the inspection reveals major problems. It might feel disappointing—but it’s better to find out before you buy than be surprised down the line.
12. Your Inspector Is Your Ally
A good home inspector isn’t there to scare you—they’re there to protect you. Ask questions. Use their knowledge. Their goal is to give you clarity and confidence.
Bottom Line
The home inspection is one of the smartest investments you’ll make during the home-buying process. It’s not just about finding problems—it’s about making informed decisions.
