Whether it’s your first or forever home, buying a new house is exciting! However, before you start daydreaming about how you’ll decorate and the future memories you’ll create, there is still much to do before you sign on the dotted line.

The home-buying process can be a little daunting – especially if it’s your first time. Lenders have many requirements that home-buyers must meet before they finance a home. After all, your home is an investment to them as well, and they want to ensure all parties are making a wise financial decision.

One way that lenders protect themselves (and you!) is through a professional home inspection. This process identifies any potential problems that may affect the value of the home in the future.

 

What Should You Expect During Your Inspection?

The duration of a home inspection varies based on many factors, including the type of inspection and the size of the home. During this process, a licensed professional will review all aspects of your home.

A home inspector is trained to ensure the proper functioning of the plumbing, sewer, electrical systems, structural integrity of the home, and more. While many people prefer to read through the report after the inspection is complete, being there for the inspection process is one of the most valuable moves you can make as a home buyer.

 

Identify Underlying Issues

Being present for the home inspection process allows you to see first-hand any problems that may catch the attention of the inspector. While walking through the steps of the inspection process, the inspector will often:

• Identify any current or potential problems with the home.
• Explain why they are problems and the possible repercussions.
• Define what needs to be completed to correct or prevent the issues.

Your home inspector may even provide you with a rough estimate of repair costs or recommend contractors to handle the repairs.

 

Learn About the Home

Your home inspector can provide more insight into your home than you might imagine. This is especially true if you’re moving to a new state, where you may be unfamiliar with aspects such as the weather and its effect on your home.

If it’s a local move, your inspector still proves invaluable with information on how certain appliances work, the layout of the sprinkler system, electrical blueprint, pest concerns, and more.

 

Ensure Quality

A professional home inspector should provide a top-quality inspection and detailed report, whether you are present for the actual event or not. However, if you are there in person, you will likely receive a more detailed review of the home and see first-hand what issues the inspector identifies. 

 

Ask Questions

A professional third-party opinion on specific features or any concerns you may have on your prospective home is invaluable. During the home inspection process, being present allows you to have a conversation with the home inspector and ask any questions about the house. The home inspector will also often take extra time to go into more detail regarding any concerns that may arise throughout the walk-through of the home.

 

Takeaway

When it comes to the home inspection process, your inspector may find things of concern. It’s important to remember that no matter how much you love the home, if it’s going to need costly repairs down the road, it may be in your best interest to walk away from the deal.

Home inspectors are there to help you make a wise financial decision — use their knowledge and expertise to your advantage to make sure you’re making a sound investment.

 

We’re Here to Help!

When buying a home, you’re making a significant financial decision. As your credit union, our goal is to help you make smart money moves to improve your financial future. Much goes into buying a home, including the home inspection.

If you would like to begin the home-buying process or have questions on mortgages, please give us a call at 202-479-2270 or email us at members@agfed.org. We are always ready to help!