Having a home inspection done typically takes about two or three hours. Of course it will take longer for larger homes.

A few of the most common issues found during home inspections include home wiring problems, roof issues such as leaks and worn-out shingles or tiles, inadequate insulation, plumbing problems, and defects in the heating and air conditioning systems. Poor grading and drainage of the yard is also quite common. Your home inspector will note the severity of these problems, to help you understand how serious they are.

The buyer usually pays for the home inspection as part of due diligence. The buyer can negotiate with the seller to include the cost of the inspection in the sellers concessions.

Do your research and make sure you hire a certified, reputable inspector. Make sure that you schedule the inspection for a time when you can walk through the home with the inspector, so that they can tell you about their findings throughout the process, and you can ask them any questions you may have.

No, home inspections aren’t required for a loan but home appraisals are. However, it’s not a good idea to skip a home inspection. Spending a few hundred now could save you thousands in the long run.

Any question that you have! Your home inspector is there to help you make sure you’re purchasing a high-quality home that’s free of major problems. A great home inspector will be used to answering any and all of your questions. That’s their job. However, avoid questions about cosmetic issues – you don’t want to waste time. Focus on asking questions about the most critical (expensive) aspects of the home, such as the wiring and plumbing, internal structure, major appliances, and other such systems.

Yes, a home inspection is technically part of closing costs. However, the cost of the home inspection is due on the day it’s done, not at closing.

Yes, home inspectors check major appliances but only for basic functionality.