Inspections
An inspection is to assess a home for its structural and mechanical systems. The basic goal of an inspection is to bring awareness to the buyer of any issues with the home. Your Real Estate Agent will look at the inspection report and advocate for you if you should be getting a better deal. Commonly inspected places are:
Roof
Ceilings
Walls
Floors
Windows
Doors
Major Appliances
Heating and Air-Conditioning
Plumbing
Electrical Systems
Basement
Attic
A home inspection happens once the seller accepts your offer you are officially under contract. Anywhere from 7-10 days is suggested to allot for the home inspection process.
It’s the buyer’s responsibility to hire the home inspector. The reason for this is so the inspector is on your side and not the seller's side, and they will give you a report that is factual. Ask your agent for who they’d recommend for a home inspection.
A home inspector can cost anywhere from $300-$500. Keep in mind this is a very rough estimate and prices vary from inspector to inspector.
While none of the items on an inspection report are mandatory for the seller to repair, it may uncover issues to better understand the home you are about to make yours. If there are several “issues” that were found during the inspection, your agent will guide you through negotiating the offer and potential seller repairs.