Essential Home Inspection & Appraisal Guide

Buying your first home? It’s exciting—but there’s a lot to figure out. Two steps that matter are the home inspection and the appraisal. They help ensure you know what you’re getting into and that you’re paying the right price.

Why These Steps Matter

The home inspection checks the condition of the house. The appraisal checks the value.

• Inspection: Shows what might be wrong with the home.
• Appraisal: Tell the lender if the home is worth your offer.

Both help protect you. Skipping them can lead to expensive problems later.

What happens in a Home Inspection?

After your offer is accepted, a home inspector checks the property. It’s a close look at things like:

• The structure: roof, walls, foundation
• Major systems: plumbing, heating, cooling, electricity
• Inside features: floors, ceilings, windows, doors
• Outside: gutters, siding, decks
• Appliances: oven, dishwasher, water heater

Picking an Inspector

Find someone with experience. Ask your agent or check online reviews. Make sure they’re certified by a group like ASHI.

Common Problems Found

• Leaky roofs
• Old wiring
• Plumbing issues
• Heating or cooling problems
• Mold or water damage

Most issues can be fixed. Some might help you lower the price or ask for repairs.

What the Inspector Won’t Check

Inspectors don’t open up walls or move furniture. They also don’t test for things like radon or asbestos unless you pay extra. If you’re buying an older home, you might want those extra tests.

You won’t get a pass/fail grade. The report just shows the condition. It’s up to you and your agent to decide what to do with that info.

After the Inspection

Once you get the report, you have choices:

• Buy the house as-is
• Ask for repairs or a price cut
• Negotiate a credit
• Walk away

Talk with your agent about what makes sense. In a hot market, asking for too much might cost you the deal.

A smart move is focusing on major issues—like foundation damage or a bad roof. Cosmetic stuff like paint or old carpet can wait.

5 Smart Ways to Buy Property Today

What Is a Home Appraisal?

An appraisal is when a licensed expert looks at the home and gives an estimate of what it’s worth. The bank needs this to decide how much money to lend you.

The appraiser is neutral. They don’t work for you or the seller. They’re hired by your lender to protect their investment.

What Affects the Value?

• Homes that sold nearby (“comps”)
• The condition of the home
• The location
• The size and layout

They’ll also consider upgrades. New kitchens, updated bathrooms, or energy-efficient windows might boost value.

The appraisal usually happens after the inspection.

What If the Value Is Too Low?

If the appraised value is less than your offer, it can cause problems. Here’s what you can do:

• Ask the seller to lower the price
• Pay the difference yourself
• Challenge the appraisal (you’ll need proof)
• Walk away (if your contract allows it)

Sometimes, it’s just a matter of timing. If your comps are old, a new sale in the neighborhood might change things. Talk with your agent about whether to fight it or move on.

Tips to Make It Easier

• Be there for the inspection: You’ll learn more and can ask questions
• Talk with your team: Stay in touch with your agent and lender
• Move fast: These steps are on a deadline
• Check your contract: Make sure it has inspection and appraisal clauses

Extra Tip: Budget for Repairs

Even if the inspection looks okay, plan for some repairs after moving in. Most homes, even new ones, have something that needs fixing. A small fund for surprises helps you settle in stress-free.

Quick Look: Inspection vs. Appraisal

These two steps aren’t just red tape. They help you avoid bad surprises. As a first-time buyer, you want to feel sure about your decision.

Ask questions. Take your time. Lean on your agent.

The inspection shows you what you’re buying. The appraisal tells you what it’s worth.

Both are there to protect you.

You’re not alone in this process. With the right team and a little preparation, you’ll feel more confident every step of the way.

Buying a home can feel like a lot. If you want help with inspections, appraisals, or anything else, we’re here for you. [Contact us today] and talk to someone who knows the ropes.

Resource

What Is A Home Appraisal And How Much Does It Cost?

Understanding Appraisals and Why They Matter

See how much your home is worth