What really matters at your Home Inspection?

Buying a home can be a stressful event.  A home inspection is supposed to give you some peace of mind, but often has the opposite effect.  The building inspector will go through a lot of information in a short period of time.  It can include a written report, checklists, photographs, environmental reports and also what the inspector tells you himself.  Combined with the Sellers Property Disclosure Statement can make this process a bit overwhelming.  Most of your inspection will be maintenance recommendations and they are good to know about.  However, the issues that really matter will fall into 4 categories: 1) Major defects: example structural failure or things that can lead to major defects like a loose roof flashing; 2) items that may hinder your ability to get financing, occupy or insure the home 3) safety hazards, such as an exposed wires on an electrical panel.  Often in items 2 and 4, a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property.  Most Sellers are surprised  to learn of defects during an inspection, and they are under no obligation to repair items mentioned in the report.  Don't lose your dream home over things that are minor, but do pay attention to the 4 items above during your inspection.  Once you move into your new home, it is a wise idea to get our your inspectors manual and take care of the 'maintenance' items that the inspector recommended.