The purchase of a home is probably the largest
single investment you will ever make. You should learn as much
as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any
major repairs before you buy, so that you can minimize unpleasant
surprises and difficulties afterwards.
Of course, a home inspection
also points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance
that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection,
you will have a much clearer understanding of the house you are about
to purchase.
If you are already a home owner, a home inspection
may be used to identify problems that develop over time and
to learn preventative measures which might avoid costly future repairs.
If you are planning to sell your home, you may wish to have an inspection
prior to placing your home on the market. This will give you
a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the
buyer's inspector and an opportunity to make repairs that will put
the house in better selling condition, which could be worth
more money from the sale.