You’re not required to have a home inspected before purchasing it, but it’s typically in your best interest. This gives you a clear understanding of the condition of the property, thus allowing you to better understand what you’re getting into.
Along with forgoing an inspection altogether, there’s another mistake you must avoid: Assuming that there’s nothing you can do if your inspector finds something wrong with the property.
Common concerns for homebuyers
Even if you’re buying a relatively new home, your home inspection is still likely to turn up trouble. Here are some of the most common concerns:
- Mold
- Leaking roof
- Asbestos
- Lead paint
- Cracked foundation
- Malfunctioning electrical and/or plumbing systems
These are no small problems. For example, if your inspection turns up an old roof that’s leaking, it requires repair or replacement in the near future. Furthermore, depending on the location of the leak and how long it’s been a problem, it may have damaged many other parts of your home.
Rather than deal with the issues after closing on your home, you should address them before the closing day arrives. Using the example above, you could request that the seller repairs the leak and associated damage before you finalize the deal. Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases of your life. It’ll affect you on many fronts, including your financial circumstances.
Don’t buy a home that doesn’t suit your wants and needs in regards to its condition. Negotiate with the seller, and no matter what you do, take steps to protect your legal rights every step of the way.