The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you'll 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 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'll have a much clearer understanding of the house you are about to purchase.

If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection may be used to identify problems in the making and to learn preventive 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 the 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.

What will cost?
The inspection fee for typical of one family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, its age, and possibly additional services, such as septic, well, or radon testing. It is a good idea to check the local prices on your own.

However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether not to have a home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest- priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration.

Can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

Can a house fail inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current conditions of your perspective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines a market value, or a municipal inspection, which it verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may need major repair or replacement.

How do I find a home inspector?
The best sources are friends, or perhaps business acquaintances, which have been satisfied with and can recommend home inspectors they have used. In addition, the names of local inspectors can be found in the Yellow Pages were many advertised under the " Building Inspection Service" or "Home Inspection Service". Real estate agents are also generally familiar with the service, and should be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose.

Whatever your referral source, you want to make sure that that the home inspector is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) in order to be assured of his or her professional qualifications, experience, and business ethics. A list of ASHI Members in your area is available upon request from the Association’s headquarters.

What is the American Society of Home Inspectors?
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is the oldest and leading nonprofit professional organization for independent home inspectors. Since its formation and 1976, ASHI's " Standards of Practice" has served as the home inspector’s performance guideline, universally recognized and accepted by professional and government authorities alike. Copies of the Standards are available free from ASHI.

ASHI Members subscribe to a professional Code of Ethics that prohibits them from engaging in conflict of interest activities which might compromise their objectivity. This is the consumer’s assurance that the inspector will not, for example, use the inspection to solicit repair work.

In order to assist home inspectors in furthering their education, ASHI sponsors a number of technical seminars and workshops throughout the year, often in cooperation with one of its nearly 50 chapters. ASHI also serves as a public interest group by providing accurate and helpful consumer information to home buyers on home purchasing and home maintenance.

Who belongs to ASHI?
Members of ASHI are independent professional home inspectors have met the most rigorous technical and experience requirements in effect today. To become an ASHI Member, an inspector must pass two written technical exams, have performed a minimum of two hundred fifty professional fee paid home inspections, and maintained his or her candidate status for no less than six months. ASHI Members are required to follow the Society's Code of Ethics, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep current with the latest in building technology, materials, and professional skills.

When do I call in the Home Inspector?
A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Do I have to be there?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is recommended. You'll be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly, as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find a written report easier to understand if you’ve seen the property firsthand through the inspector’s eyes.

What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or make repairs if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with your eyes open as to the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s report, and will want to keep that information for future reference.