The importance of a home inspection
So you’ve found a house you love. Great backyard, gleaming hardwood, and the kitchen of your dreams. But what about the furnace? The wiring? Leaks in the basement? Before you buy, have the home inspected; no matter how experienced you are as a homeowner, it’s the best way to make sure you really know what you’re getting into.
A home inspection will give you the information you need to make an informed decision. The inspector will determine the condition of the house you’re thinking about buying, and let you know if there are any problems. (And the great thing is, the inspector doesn’t care if you buy the house or not, so you can be sure he or she is being objective, even if you’re not.) If you have to make an offer, make it conditional on an inspection.
A home inspection will give you the information you need to make an informed decision. The inspector will determine the condition of the house you’re thinking about buying, and let you know if there are any problems. (And the great thing is, the inspector doesn’t care if you buy the house or not, so you can be sure he or she is being objective, even if you’re not.) If you have to make an offer, make it conditional on an inspection.
If significant issues are identified by the inspector, you have three options:
1. Withdraw from the offer, rendering it null and void.
2. Reach an agreement with the seller regarding the purchase price.
3. Give the seller the opportunity to repair the defects before you become the owner.
*** It is important to understand that the inspection is not a tool for renegotiation or for withdrawing from a contract (offer) with the seller. Attempting to renegotiate and/or withdraw could put you at risk of legal action from the seller. Discuss the different criteria and options with your real estate agent and/or a lawyer specializing in real estate law and/or a notary.
1. Withdraw from the offer, rendering it null and void.
2. Reach an agreement with the seller regarding the purchase price.
3. Give the seller the opportunity to repair the defects before you become the owner.
*** It is important to understand that the inspection is not a tool for renegotiation or for withdrawing from a contract (offer) with the seller. Attempting to renegotiate and/or withdraw could put you at risk of legal action from the seller. Discuss the different criteria and options with your real estate agent and/or a lawyer specializing in real estate law and/or a notary.
What happens during a home inspection?
The inspector will then prepare an inspection report outlining any issues (specifying whether they are major problems requiring immediate attention or minor issues that can be addressed later), highlighting the property’s strengths, and providing an overview of the maintenance needed to keep the property in good condition. Make sure the report is detailed and written in a narrative style. Never accept a verbal report or a report that consists of a simple checklist.
How much does it cost?
In 2025, inspections generally cost around $800 including taxes for the private area of a condo and around $900 including taxes for a house. Of course, prices may vary depending on the inspector chosen, the area, and the time of year (May and June are often busier for inspectors than July, for example). But keep this in mind: a few hundred dollars could save you thousands in repair costs. It’s a small price to pay for great peace of mind.
How do I find a good inspector?
Look for a qualified company with a good reputation that has been in business for a while, can provide references from previous clients, is fully insured, and offers guaranteed inspections. Inspectors should hold a degree in a construction-related field such as contracting, architecture, or structural engineering. At your request, your real estate agent can recommend a reputable inspector who will remain objective, or you can ask friends or conduct an online search.
When you’ve fallen in love with a house, it’s hard to see any faults on your own. Make sure the decision is a good one, and get it inspected so you can be sure you stay in love – for years to come.