Why Every Home Buyer Needs a Home Inspection
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, whether it’s a brand new or resale property. Before signing on the dotted line, one crucial step can make all the difference: the home inspection. In this post, we summarize a conversation between Josh Tagg and Jay Lewis, who dive deep into why every home buyer should invest in a professional home inspection.
The Importance of a Home Inspection
As Josh Tagg opens the discussion, he emphasizes how vital a home inspection is in understanding the condition of the property. Whether you’re looking at a brand-new house or an older home, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that might be hiding beneath the surface. Jay Lewis, who often accompanies buyers during the inspection process, shares his first-hand experience on why this step can make or break your home-buying decision.
Two Key Reasons to Get a Home Inspection
1. Education About Your New Home
According to Jay, one of the primary reasons to get a home inspection is education. A qualified inspector can help you understand your home’s key systems and give advice on maintaining the property for years to come. They will provide valuable insights, such as how to prepare your home for winter or get it ready for the warmer months. This knowledge allows you to protect your home and avoid future damage, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.
2. Identifying Hidden Problems
While you might be focused on how your furniture will fit in the living room or the aesthetics of the kitchen, a home inspector is looking for what you can’t see with the naked eye. They are trained to identify hidden problems, often using specialized tools to detect issues that could be costly down the road.
Jay shares a real-life example where an inspector used thermal imaging to detect a significant water leak in the attic of a home. The buyers wouldn’t have been aware of this issue without the inspection, but thanks to the discovery, they were able to negotiate necessary repairs before finalizing the purchase.
Renegotiation After the Home Inspection
One of the biggest benefits of getting a home inspection is the potential to renegotiate the terms of the deal. Jay explains that once hidden issues are identified, the buyers have the leverage to ask the sellers to fix the problems or, in some cases, reduce the price of the home. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t apply to issues that were obvious beforehand, such as an old furnace or water heater.
Often, the goal isn’t to lower the price but to ensure that necessary repairs are completed before the sale is finalized. The inspector’s report gives buyers a clear understanding of the property’s condition, allowing them to make informed decisions about moving forward with the purchase.
Why You Should Always Hire a Professional
Josh and Jay both agree that hiring a qualified home inspector is a must. While it might be tempting to rely on a friend or family member who knows a bit about houses, they won’t have the tools or the certification necessary to spot critical issues. Professional inspectors are equipped with advanced technology, such as thermal cameras, and are licensed to carry out thorough examinations of the property.
Additionally, a professional inspector provides an unbiased report that buyers can trust, offering peace of mind as they navigate one of life’s most important purchases.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Inspection!
Skipping a home inspection to save time or money could lead to expensive surprises down the road. As Jay points out, it’s not just about discovering problems but also about learning how to care for your new home. When you work with a qualified inspector, you’ll be better equipped to protect your investment and avoid costly repairs in the future.
If you’re in the market for a new home, make sure to prioritize a home inspection. It’s a small step that can have a huge impact on your buying experience.
Watch the Full Video for More Insights
Josh and Jay dive even deeper into this topic in their video series. You can watch the full discussion here. Make sure to subscribe for more valuable home-buying tips!
