When purchasing anything, it's best to have all the necessary information ready before deciding. From knowing what ingredients should go in your soup to seeing if the foundation in a home you are interested in is cracked, having the facts makes sense before buying.

As a home is such a significant purchase in someone's life, getting a home inspection is an absolute must. It will clue a buyer in on nearly every aspect of the home's condition, from the roof down to the basement. Whether it's an older property or a newly built home, it's critical to have an inspection. There are a number of issues a home could have that a buyer won't be able to see when taking a tour. Sure, you might have loved the place when a seller showed it in its best light, but finding out its true condition can only be done with a home inspection. This simple step is all it takes to make a more informed home buying decision.

And while the information buyers obtain from an inspection likely won't make or break a purchase, it allows them to be better homeowners. For example, an inspector might have pointed out that some shingles are missing from the roof. This would be a repair a buyer would have trouble figuring out on their own, and while the roof might not need to be replaced upon moving in, it could be something a homeowner needs to plan for in the future. 

What will it cover?
A home inspection will look into more than 300 different parts of a property. Even an experienced homeowner probably  wouldn't be able to provide as thorough of an analysis as a reputable home inspection company. They have the knowledge and expertise that is required to truly assess a home. So what will it cover? Here are a few things:

  • Roofing
  • Foundation
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical Systems
  • Appliances
  • Basement
  • Attic
  • Kitchens
  • Porches and Decks
  • Siding
  • Water Heater
  • Lot

Those are just some of the major aspects a home inspection will cover. Without this information, buyers would be in the dark when making a purchase.

Buyers can be present during an inspection

Getting all the facts about a home inspection is easier for a buyer when he or she is there throughout the process. While it's not a requirement, it's still a good idea to be present for an inspection. A home inspection company will provide a comprehensive report once an inspection is completed. However, being present during a home inspection has its benefits. Buyers will be able to ask an inspector any questions they might have while they are going through the house. And as they likely won't have someone with a home inspector's expertise at their disposal, taking advantage of this opportunity while they can is a good idea.

Experienced home inspectors will be on hand to answer questions a buyer might have. Instead of wondering about things after they move in, asking a home inspector can ease any worries buyers might have. The unbiased opinion is highly valuable. While a seller and real estate agent might have ulterior motives when it comes to getting a buyer to make a purchase, a home inspector doesn't. He or she will provide the necessary facts to help make a decision without trying to sell potential buyers on anything. This trust is something every buyer looks for when assessing a property. Having a home inspection will ensure buyers make a more informed decision, knowing every detail - big or small - before they buy. Trusted inspectors will walk them through a home, show them any glaring issues and provide them with a thorough report. No home should be purchased without this information.