Why You Should Never Skip a Home Inspection—Even If You’re in a Hurry
Why You Should Never Skip a Home Inspection - Even If You’re in a Hurry
When you finally find the one - the home you've been dreaming about - it's easy to let emotions take the wheel. You've walked through the rooms, imagined your family gathering in the kitchen, and maybe even pictured sipping coffee on the front porch.
At that point, it's tempting to rush through the final steps just to make sure you win the house. Some buyers even consider skipping the home inspection altogether to speed things up or make their offer more appealing to sellers. But here's the truth: skipping a home inspection could cost you thousands in repairs and a whole lot of stress down the road.
What Is a Home Inspection and Why Is It Important?
A home inspection is a thorough review of a property's condition, performed by a licensed professional after your offer is accepted but before closing. The inspector takes a detailed look at all the major components and systems of the house to help you better understand what you're actually buying.
Depending on your location, a home inspection usually covers things like:
- Roof condition
- Foundation and structural integrity
- Plumbing systems
- Electrical wiring
- Heating and cooling (HVAC) systems
- Water damage, mold, or signs of pest infestation
- Appliances and general safety issues
It's like giving the house a full physical before signing the dotted line.
Top Reasons to Always Get a Home Inspection
Here's why this step is absolutely worth it:
- Avoid Unpleasant Surprises: A home can look perfect on the surface, but there may be hidden problems you didn't catch during your initial walkthrough. An inspection uncovers these issues early, so you're not caught off guard later.
- Gain Negotiating Power: If the inspection reveals needed repairs or safety concerns, you can negotiate with the seller to fix them before closing - or ask for a credit to make the repairs yourself. Your real estate agent can help guide these conversations.
- Protect Your Investment: Your home is likely one of the biggest purchases you'll ever make. Spending a few hundred dollars upfront could save you thousands in unexpected repairs after you move in.
- Peace of Mind: Let's be honest - buying a home can be stressful. An inspection gives you peace of mind, knowing exactly what you're walking into.
Why You Shouldn’t Waive the Inspection - Even in a Hot Market
Lately, more buyers have been waiving the inspection contingency to compete in a busy market. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, nearly 1 in 4 buyers are skipping this step altogether.
But while waiving your inspection might help your offer stand out, it's also a major risk. As Realtor.com points out:
"…waiving a home inspection comes with sizable risks."
Instead of taking that gamble, talk to your agent about other ways to make your offer strong - like being flexible with the closing date or increasing your earnest money deposit. A good agent will help you stay competitive without sacrificing your protection.
The Bottom Line
A home inspection isn't just another box to check - it's a smart move that protects your finances, your family, and your future. Even in a competitive market, don't skip it. Knowledge is power, and when it comes to buying a home, that knowledge could save you a lot of headaches.
Ready to start your home search with a team who puts your best interest first?
Let's chat! I'll walk you through the entire process and make sure no important step - like the home inspection - is overlooked.
👉 Message us today or email us at info@southshoreregion.com if you have any additional questions. You can also call or text us at 219.237.8026
Written by Ed Stojancevich for SouthShore Region Mortgage Group