5 Reasons Never to Skip the Home Inspection

Have you just had your offer accepted on a gorgeous new home? If so, you're likely eager to move in and start making the space your very own. Before you do so, however, there's one crucial step you must take before moving forward with the transaction: the home inspection. This essential piece of the puzzle can save you significant time, money, and headaches down the line. Read on to learn why a home inspection is so important in your real estate journey.

A primary reason why a home inspection is essential is to assess for any structural problems. These concerns might involve damage to the foundation, walls, roof, chimney, stairs, or other structural components. The inspector will assess for any tell-tale signs that the foundation may have shifted, such as uneven doors, horizontal cracks in the interior or exterior walls, bowing, tilted stairs, and any gaps at the bottom of walls. They will also assess for drainage issues that can lead to water pooling and foundation damage.

 

Many of these issues can be expensive and time-consuming to address, but it’s essential that you (as the buyer) are made aware of them. Failing to conduct a home inspection may result in discovering these issues too late, leading to further complications that would be even more costly to repair.

Conducting a home inspection allows you to identify any structural concerns ahead of time. With this knowledge in hand, you can determine whether or not to move forward with the transaction.

A thorough examination is imperative to uncover potential safety hazards that might be lurking in the shadows. These hazards may involve problems with the electrical or plumbing systems or the presence of hazardous substances. These issues can pose a severe risk to your health, and an inspection can identify these concerns so you (or the seller) can address them before you move into the property.

The inspector will evaluate for out-of-code or incorrect wiring and recommend any areas that need to be updated. Electrical hazards are no joke. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and outdated electrical panels can spell disaster. Electrical fires and electrocution are real risks that can result from these issues.

A seasoned home inspector will look for signs of potential hazards, such as exposed wires, outdated or damaged electrical panels, and shoddy wiring. Catching these risks early on can be a lifesaver, preventing accidents and ensuring that the electrical system is compliant with the code and safe to use.

A professional home inspector will also test to ensure that the carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are up-to-date and fully functional. They will also evaluate for outdated heating and cooling systems or furnace issues that could be a potential fire hazard.

Plumbing systems are not to be taken lightly, either. They are another critical area that requires thorough inspection for safety concerns. Leaking pipes, improper drainage, and malfunctioning water heaters can wreak havoc, causing water damage and mold growth. Mold can trigger respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems.

A meticulous inspection is crucial in detecting any plumbing issues, such as leaks, blockages, or outdated plumbing materials. The stakes are high, and prompt recommendations for repairs or replacements are essential to prevent further damage and secure the safety of the property.

It's not just electrical and plumbing systems that pose a threat. Hazardous substances could be hidden, posing severe health risks. Asbestos, commonly found in older homes, can cause respiratory diseases and cancer. Radon, a radioactive gas, can silently accumulate in homes and potentially cause lung cancer.

A comprehensive home inspection leaves no stone unturned, encompassing testing for these hazardous substances and identifying potential risks. With this knowledge, you can take the appropriate measures to tackle the hazards head-on.

If the home inspection reveals any issues with the property, you may be able to negotiate further with the seller for repairs or a lower price. For example, if the examination reveals that the roof needs a replacement soon, you may be able to negotiate for a lower sales price or ask the seller to replace the roof before closing. The seller may also give you a credit to perform the repairs yourself after you move in. The other option, of course, is to walk away from the transaction if you and the other party can’t come to an agreement about the necessary repairs.

Conducting a home inspection allows you to negotiate repairs or a lower price and save yourself a lot of money in the long run. Of course, your agent will represent you during negotiations and help you and the other party come to an agreement both sides can be happy with.

Even if the inspection doesn't reveal any significant issues with the property, it is still a valuable process to help you plan for future repairs and maintenance. If you attend the home inspection in person, you will have the chance to ask questions and better understand any areas to keep an eye on. You can also get tips and advice from the inspector on maintaining your new home and preventing future problems. The inspector can identify any minor issues or areas that may require attention in the future, enabling you to create a plan and budget for these upcoming repairs. With these projects in mind, you can avoid unexpected expenses and keep your property in good condition.

In addition to the standard home inspection, you may also want to consider more specialized assessments. For example, if the property has a swimming pool, you may want to have a pool inspection to ensure it is in good condition. If the property is older, you may request a separate assessment for lead-based paint or other environmental hazards.

It's important to remember that a home inspection is not a guarantee that there are no issues with the property. The inspector can only identify problems that are visible and accessible at the time of the inspection. There may be underlying issues that are not apparent, and the inspector may recommend further evaluation by a specialist if necessary.

In conclusion, the inspection is an important component of the home-buying process, as it can help you identify any issues with the property and protect your investment and future. Don't skip this critical step, and make sure to work with a reputable home inspector to ensure that your new home is safe, sound, and ready for you to move into.

Ready to take the next step in buying or selling a home? From Naperville to Aurora, IL, real estate, reach out to the expert agents at the Keith Dickerson Team for guidance all throughout the Chicagoland area.

_{*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock}