Today, I have a tip for first-time homebuyers regarding home inspections.

A lot of buyers will consider doing a home inspection when they’re purchasing a home, and it’s crucial for those buying for the first time.

You should have an independent third party come to evaluate the property to make sure that you’re aware of all of its flaws. Hopefully, that list isn’t going to be too long, but either way, it’s important to know about those items before you close on the house.

A home inspector is typically a professional who will spend between two and four hours taking photos and testing various systems and appliances, looking for red flags. Sometimes, the inspection will turn up details that require further inspection, such as a faulty furnace or an issue with the electrical or plumbing. These further evaluations will be done by an independent contractor.

Inspections typically take place within the first five to 10 days after you sign a purchase agreement. The costs are paid upfront, and can run anywhere from $200 to $700 depending on what you’re having done. Talk to your agent about what the typical cost of an inspection is for the home you’re purchasing.

If you have any further questions, please reach out to me. I’d love to help you.