When you finally find the home you want to buy, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. You’ve toured the place, and imagined your furniture in it. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. And no matter how perfect that house seems, skipping a home inspection is a risk that could cost you a lot more than just time.
What Exactly Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection gives you a detailed look at the home’s condition, usually after your offer is accepted, during your diligence period. An inspector typically goes over the home’s major systems and structure, including things like the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more.
Why an Inspection Is Worth It:
• Helps you avoid unpleasant surprises. A house might seem move-in ready, but could have issues you didn’t see during your walkthrough. Knowing about these before closing day is important. That way, you have a better idea of what work may need to be done to the home.
• Gives you negotiating power. Depending on what the inspection turns up, you may want to re-negotiate with the Seller. You can ask the seller to handle repairs before closing day or provide a credit so you can take care of them yourself.
• Offers you peace of mind. Buying a home is emotional, especially if you’ve been searching for a while. An inspection helps take some of the uncertainty off your plate, so you can move forward with confidence.
Why You Don’t Want To Waive Your Inspection
Some Buyers try to make their offer more competitive by waiving the inspection. Skipping your home inspection is a gamble that doesn’t necessarily pay off though. There are other ways to make your offer attractive to the Sellers, like being flexible with the closing date.
Bottom Line
Even if skipping an inspection sounds like a way to make your offer more competitive or speed things up, it’s risky. It’s not just extra time and documentation, it’s a smart step that protects your wallet, your investment, and your future.
Laura Harbison, ABR, AHWD, BPOR, BS, CDPE, CRS, DRB, GRI, PSA, RSPS, SRES
Broker/Owner REALTY EXECUTIVES SOUTHERN NEVADA PROPERTIES
License NumbersB.0026537LLCPM.0164922.BKR