The Home Inspection: Do’s and Don’ts for Home Buyers

Learn why you should choose your own home inspector, what you should do during the inspection, when to negotiate on repairs and more.
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Updated · 3 min read
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Written by Kate Wood
Lead Writer/Spokesperson
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Edited by Beth Buczynski
Lead Assigning Editor
Fact Checked

A home inspection isn't just your opportunity to ensure that a home is fit for you and your family. Knowing what to look for in a home inspection will help you understand any defects and, if you have enough leverage, assess what repairs should be made on the seller's dime before moving day.

Use these home inspection tips for buyers to prepare for the inspection and what comes next.

Do vet more than one home inspector

It's in your best interest to choose a home inspector with care. Your real estate agent may recommend an inspector, or the seller might offer to show you a report from a home inspection they've had done. To avoid any conflict of interest and to get the most objective information on the home's condition, you'll want an independent home inspector. And because things move quickly after an offer is accepted, you may even want to research inspectors while you're house hunting.

Certain professional organizations can be a shortcut to finding a qualified home inspector. (Not all states require home inspectors to hold licenses.) For example, the American Society of Home Inspectors requires members to perform more than 250 inspections and pass the National Home Inspector Examination to be eligible for membership.

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New American Funding - PURCHASE logo

4.5

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500

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3.5%

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on New American Funding

Rocket Mortgage - PURCHASE logo
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Rocket Mortgage - PURCHASE logo

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