When considering buying a home you have to follow a check list of all the things you need to do in order to avoid any further issues. One line in your check list should be to have the home, you planned to purchase, inspected. Why is it so important? Buying a home will be one of the most important purchases you will make in your lifetime, so you should be sure that the home you want to buy is in good condition. And it will reveal defects before you close the deal.

A home inspection is an evaluation of a home’s condition by a trained expert. During a home inspection, a qualified inspector is supposed to take an in-depth and impartial look at the property you plan to buy. The inspector will first evaluate the physical condition in terms of the structure, construction and mechanical systems; second identify items that should be repaired or replaced; and eventually estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems (such as electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning), equipment, structure and finishes. After the completion of the inspection, you will receive a written report of the findings from the home inspector, usually within five to seven days.

But beware the home inspector will not estimate the value of the house. The report you will receive is not a property appraisal is a document that provides an estimate of a property’s market value. The appraisal of a property, required for lenders prior to loan approval to ensure that the mortgage loan amount is not more than the value of the property. Don’t mix up home inspection, which is meant for buyer, and home appraisal, for lenders.

If you are a homebuyer, it is your responsibility to carefully select a qualified inspector and pay for the inspection. Your real estate agent may recommend you some inspectors home inspectors or you can find licensed inspector towards professional or state organizations.