Home Inspections 101: 5 Mistakes That Could Cost You

5 Common Home Inspection Mistakes Buyers Make

A home inspection is one of the most important steps when buying a home—but are you making costly mistakes?

As a real estate professional, I’ve seen buyers overlook critical issues simply because they weren’t prepared for the inspection process. While a home may look perfect on the surface, hidden problems can turn into expensive repairs if not caught early.

To ensure you make a smart, informed purchase, here are five common home inspection mistakes to avoid.

1. Skipping the Home Inspection

🚨 Mistake:

Some buyers waive the home inspection to make their offer more competitive, but this can lead to huge financial risks down the road.

✅ Solution:

Always get a professional home inspection—no matter how competitive the market is. A few hundred dollars now can save you thousands in unexpected repairs later.

2. Not Attending the Inspection

🚨 Mistake:

Many buyers rely solely on the inspection report and don’t show up in person to see potential issues firsthand.

✅ Solution:

If possible, attend the home inspection and walk through the home with the inspector. This allows you to:

✔ Ask questions in real time

✔ See problem areas firsthand

✔ Get maintenance tips for the home

3. Not Hiring the Right Inspector

🚨 Mistake:

Not all home inspectors are the same! Choosing one based on price alone or not checking credentials can lead to incomplete inspections and missed issues.

✅ Solution:

Hire a licensed, experienced home inspector with great reviews. Ask about their certifications, sample reports, and whether they use advanced tools like thermal imaging for detecting hidden problems.

4. Ignoring Small Issues in the Report

🚨 Mistake:

Some buyers focus only on major problems like a bad roof or foundation issues and ignore smaller repairs—which can add up over time.

✅ Solution:

Pay attention to the entire inspection report and factor minor repairs into your budget. Things like leaky faucets, outdated wiring, or poor drainage may not seem urgent but could lead to bigger problems later.

5. Not Negotiating Repairs or Credits

🚨 Mistake:

Many buyers think they have to accept the home "as is" after the inspection, but you may have room to negotiate!

✅ Solution:

If major issues are found, consider:

✔ Asking the seller to make repairs before closing

✔ Negotiating a credit so you can handle repairs yourself

✔ Walking away if the home has too many costly problems

Buying a Home? Don’t Skip This Critical Step!

A home inspection protects your investment and gives you peace of mind before closing. With the right approach, you can avoid costly surprises and feel confident in your purchase!

Feel free to reach out to me for further assistance—I’d love to help you navigate the home buying process and find the perfect home for you!