What Does Your Home Inspection Report Mean

Any new first time home buyer who is unfamiliar with the home inspection process will have many questions. Some of the most common questions are about the home inspection report. This is not just about the process but what to do with this long list home inspection details. Here are three things you should absolutely do with your home inspection report.

Use your home inspection report as a negotiation tool

This will not apply to everyone but does apply to most. Very likely you will discover at least one major concern during the home inspection. A concern big enough that you will either want it addressed before you close on the house or you will want to adjust the closing costs to address the problem. Either way, the inspection report is your most important tool in making these negotiations. Your real estate agent will help you navigate these waters, so don’t try to do it on your own. Keep in mind, no matter what the report uncovers you always have the option to back out of the sale or adjust the terms.

Print a copy of your home inspection report

Any good home inspector will tell you the company will keep your inspection report in their records for up to a year. But you would be surprised how quickly a year flies by. Especially when you are busy settling into your new home. As soon as your report is available, print and keep a copy for your records. There will likely come a time when you will need to reference back to the report.

Look at your report after you move into the home

We always tell our clients that their report is like a home to-do list. Some of the findings will need to be addressed immediately. Others you will want to address eventually – so, not quite as pressing but still important. And lastly, some issues you will consider optional. Either you want to address it or you don’t, and either way it’s up to you. No matter what timeline you decide on, make it a point to look at your inspection report within six months after moving into your new home. Most homeowners will completely forget about home inspection findings they deemed important at the time. Use the report to create a home to-do list that you can tackle in your own time.

Divinity Inspection Services takes a slightly different approach to home inspections. Our goal is to educate you on the house you want to purchase in as much detail as possible. Not only do we take the time to complete a thorough inspection of the property, but we also take the time to discuss the inspection with you in detail. This gives you the opportunity to ask for clarification on anything. Be sure you attend the home inspection and be sure you hire the right company.