You should have the home inspected before you sign your purchase agreement but if you cannot you should at least make sure there is a clause in your contract that the sale of the house is contingent on the positive outcome of the home inspection. A certified home inspector will perform a comprehensive inspection of the home, and provide you a detailed report of their findings.
As a buyer:
- Plan to be present to get a firsthand explanation of the inspector’s findings.
- You get to choose your own home inspector. Get recommendations from people you know and trust.
- Visit the American Society of Home Inspectors site online to find an expert in your area.
- Double check your contract to make sure you have an inspection contingency clause that says your final purchase obligation depends on the results of a professional home inspection.
- Prepare a list of any questions or concerns you have about the property and give the list to the inspector.
- A typical inspection lasts two to three hours long.
- After the inspection is complete, the inspector will prepare an extensive written report for your review.
- Expect imperfections, every home has flaws.
- If major problems are discovered, you have the right to ask the seller to make repairs, or reduce the sale price, if you still want to purchase the home.