As a buyer, you need to know exactly what you are getting. Don't take for granted that what you see and what the seller tells you is all there is. A professional home inspection is something you will WANT to do, whether you are buying an existing home or a new one. An inspection is an opportunity to have an expert look closely at the property you are considering purchasing and you'll get both an oral and written opinion as to its condition.

Beforehand, make sure the report will be done by a professional organization, such as a local trade organization or a national trade organization such as ASHI (American Society of Home Inspection). Not only should you never skip an inspection, but also you should go along with the inspector during inspection. If you can't get to the home inpsection, I will go for you! This gives you a chance to ask questions about the property and get answers that are not biased. In addition, the oral comments are typically more revealing and detailed than what you will find on the written report. Once the inspection is complete, review the inspection report carefully.

I will always advise you to request an inspection when you write your offer. The NC Real Estate Commission has built in wording in the Offer to Purchase that allows for you to have a satisfactory home inspection done before you are required to purchase a home. Ask me about the other remedies for buyers that relate to a home inspection!