When an inspection costs as little as $300-$500, wouldn’t you rather spend that than thousands (or tens of thousands)?

That’s the question. The answer should be: invest in an inspection. “You need unbiased documentation of the home’s condition,” says Eric Swiatek, owner of Green Leaf Inspections. Special inspections like radon, HVAC or septic may add to the cost. In the end, the cost of the inspection is certainly worth the investment.

“It’s about what’s wearing out, what’s in the attic, and what’s on the roof that matters,” states Swiatek. Inspectors discover problems, expensive or not, that you need to know. When finalizing your house purchase, an inspection is a way to back out if the house isn’t up to snuff. It’s also a negotiation tool for what needs repair. It creates options for the buyer: offer a lower price for the home, have the seller pay for the repairs, or negotiate who pays for what.

Bidding Wars

Don’t let yourself get caught up in bidding wars because others are willing to waive the inspection. Remember, realtors aim to close the deal. Be your own advocate. This is a huge investment – often the largest investment you’ll ever make – so take it seriously. It could cost far more than the purchase price if you waive the inspection.

Leaks and Safety

Home inspectors look at structural problems, e.g. foundations. They also inspect roofs for age, maintenance, and areas of concern. A new roof may cost $10-15,000. Again, you may negotiate this repair.

Another area is safety of the home. The electrical system and radon levels are key to safety to reduce the risk of fire hazards and to alleviate health issues which radon is known to cause.

Maintenance

Homes age, and as they do, elements wear down and break. An inspector will notify you of pending maintenance issues and how long an item may last or cost to replace. Furnaces, hot water tanks, etc. These are important issues for your household budget and should be considered when purchasing a home.

Most Important – Peace of Mind

How do you place a value on peace of mind? Knowing all you need to know when placing a bid provides relief of the unknowns. Making an informed decision is priceless. So, arrange for the inspection today.