At first glance home inspections may be viewed as an “extra” or even “hidden” cost by the home buyer. But that is not the case when you examine the advantages of getting a home inspection. When the deal is all sealed and done you will see that the benefits will far outweigh its cost.

Knowing the structural problems of the property gives the home buyer the leverage to negotiate for a lower price. It also protects you from buying a property that would need huge sums of money for repairs.

Home repairs associated with construction problems are costly, and buyers need to identify these problems before purchasing a home to avoid getting trapped into absorbing these expenses. Home inspections will also point out safety issues in the property and recommend steps on how these need to be addressed.

Home inspections will cover the following areas: drainage and water problems, foundation and structure, roof, kitchen, bathrooms, interior structures, electrical, plumbing, insulation and furnace. It will cover inside and outside the property. The home inspection report made after the inspection will outline areas that need to be addressed immediately, as well as those which may be problematic in the future.

Home buyers can undertake the repairs themselves or seek the help of a contractor who can do the work for the lowest prices. Be sure to share the costs with your real estate agent who can help negotiate the costs into your contract with the seller and may help lower the buying price of the property.

In summary the benefits of a home inspection would include: structural and home safety evaluation; and assessment of repair costs.

There are home inspection checklists available online which you could use as a guide when interviewing the home inspector. Check out these lists as well to ensure that you only hire a qualified person for the job. Home inspections can save home buyers money, but it would all depend on how good a job the inspector you hire does.