Buying a home is an exciting experience – but it’s also a big commitment. Before you make the leap, there are steps to take to ensure that the house you’re considering is in good condition and worth your investment. One of these steps is a home inspection. While some buyers may try to skip this process to save time and money, waiving a home inspection is never a good idea. This article will give six solid reasons never to waive a home inspection.
Home Inspections Uncover Safety Issues
A home inspector is trained to look for safety issues in a property. Some common hazards they look for include electrical and fire safety, roofing problems, plumbing issues, and much more. Skipping a professional inspection can mean missing critical safety issues in a property that won’t be uncovered until you live there. You don’t want to discover structural issues in your roof system when it’s the only thing protecting you from the elements.
Never Waive a Home Inspection Because Inspectors Spot Costly Problems
Some issues in a home can be costly to fix. Without a home inspection, you won’t have an accurate idea of what repairs the property needs before buying it. A professional inspector can detect many potential problems and provide you with an estimate for prevention and repair so that you don’t end up stuck with a costly surprise.
Inspectors Check for Infestations
No one wants to buy a home with an infestation of pests, but sometimes these issues can go undetected or be hidden by the seller. Many home inspectors offer pest inspections to look for wood-destroying insect infestations and damage. A pest inspection is a good way to uncover potential pest problems before they become too serious. The inspector may also note areas where pests are likely to gain access and recommend how to prevent them from coming in.
Never Waive a Home Inspection Because Inspections Can Be Used to Negotiate
If a home inspection turns up a lot of issues, you can use this information to renegotiate the home’s purchase price or ask the seller to make necessary repairs before you close on the property. This isn’t an option if you skip the inspection, and it could save you thousands off the price of the house.
Inspectors Check for Damage from Disasters
Natural disasters can cause a lot of damage to homes, and sometimes the signs are not immediately visible. A professional home inspector can look for hidden damage caused by flooding, earthquakes, or other severe weather events that could cost you thousands in repairs if they’re unnoticed. These insights can help you understand the property’s history, which can help determine future risks from similar disasters.
You’ll Have Peace of Mind
Finally, a home inspection can give you peace of mind that your new property is in good condition and worth the money you’re paying for it. Skipping this step could leave you with an unpleasant surprise after closing. A home inspection helps ensure you know exactly what you’re getting before making such a big purchase.
It’s never a good idea to waive a home inspection. An inspection costs far less than what you could be stuck with if something goes wrong. Do your due diligence and get a professional opinion before taking on such a big financial commitment. You won’t regret it.
JBS Home Inspections provides home inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the greater Boston area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.