A home inspection is an essential part of the home buying process. It can help you identify any potential property problems, allowing you to negotiate with the seller for a lower price. However, if you’re not careful, you could end up making some costly mistakes down the road during your home inspection. For instance, you expect a home with no more squirrels, but then you find out that it has this pest infestation problem. But don’t worry. That’s why we’re here to help. We’ll reveal four costly mistakes you must avoid as a buyer when attending a home inspection with the inspector.
Not Budgeting for Repairs
One of the most common mistakes buyers make is not budgeting for repairs. Just because a home inspector didn’t find any problems with the property doesn’t mean there won’t be any repairs needed down the road. Even if the home is in excellent condition, you should still save money each month for potential repairs and maintenance. Doing this will prepare you for anything, and you won’t have to worry about dipping into your savings.
Ignoring Red Flags Mentioned by the Inspector
If the home inspector mentions any red flags, taking them seriously is mandatory. Just because they didn’t find anything significantly wrong with the property doesn’t mean you should ignore their advice. If they say something needs to be fixed or replaced, get a second opinion from a qualified contractor. Ignoring red flags could end up costing you a lot of money down the road.
Skipping the Yard Inspection Report
Many home buyers often forget to inspect the yard during their home inspection. But this is a big mistake. The last thing you want is to move into your new home and find out that the previous owners didn’t take care of the yard. It could lead to costly repairs or, even worse, an infestation of pests. So make sure to take a walk around the property and take a close look at the yard’s condition. You know you can always negotiate with the seller to have them take care of any problems before you move in.
Not Following Up After the Inspection
Once the home inspection is complete, it’s essential to follow up with the inspector. Ask them any questions you may have and make sure you understand everything they said in their report. By doing this, you can avoid making any costly mistakes that could come back to bite you later on. Also, don’t forget to get a copy of the home inspection report for your records. If you ever need to reference it, you’ll have it on hand. Buying a home is not a cheap endeavor. But by following these simple tips, you can avoid making costly mistakes during your home inspection.
With a bit of preparation and due diligence, you can rest assured knowing that you’re making a smart investment in your future. As always, if you have any questions or need help with your home inspection, we’re here to help.