Most Canadians would admit that buying a home is one of life’s most stressful experiences.  Surprisingly however, some home buyers skip the professional Home Inspection and take their chances.  Think of it this way, a person is willing to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on a house, but surprisingly isn’t willing to spend a couple of hundred dollars to make sure it’s a good investment.  Yes, the Home Inspection costs extra money, and money is tight with the down payment, lawyer’s fees etc.  But as much as you might resist getting a Home Inspection, whatever the reason, there are even more reasons why you should get one.  Here are some of the more important ones…

1) It’s Your Biggest Investment:

Canadians aren’t known for being big savers. In fact, most have their savings tied up entirely in their homes. Imagine if you were to purchase the proverbial “money pit”, you could risk watching your biggest investment being eaten up by expenses.


2) A Detailed Home Inspection Report:

A detailed Home Inspection, by a qualified Inspector, will identify repairs the property may require.  More importantly, it will call your attention to any potential structural deficiencies. These types of deficiencies are more significant than broken windows, cracked siding, or loose shingles. It could be that there is a problem with the foundation, the walls, and even the support structure beneath the roof shingles. These are large expenses that you will want to know about before you complete the purchase.

3) Be Fully Educated On Your Purchase:

One of the most important reasons for identifying deficiencies is to assist in educating the buyer about the home and to give them an opportunity to request repairs be completed before you close on the property. There may be certain repairs that will not become obvious until after you’ve been living in the property, our job as your inspector is to make you aware of those that should be addressed upfront. If any of these conditions are not met, they should be remedied before you close on the house. And it is much easier to have the seller make repairs before closing – like before they have your money – than to go after them after the fact.


4)   The Negotiation Tool:

One aspect of a home inspection that many buyers overlook is that it can be one of your best tools for negotiation. Even if you have already settled on a price, one of the largest benefits of the home inspection is determining if there are any major deficiencies that you were unaware of during negotiations. Our best interests are with the client and the home, we’re not there to kill the deal, just to inspect the house for deficiencies and report them as we see them so you, as a buyer, know exactly what you’re getting. That’s why it’s important to have the home inspection condition in your offer. Unexpected costly issues can possibly be re-negotiated before the condition is removed.

5) The Jack of No Trades:

If you are not good at home repairs, then having a home inspection done is strongly advised. Minor repairs noted during a home inspection can be inexpensive “easy fixes” for someone with some home repair skills. Be honest with yourself about how much repair work you can handle, as paying a contractor to perform repairs can be costly.

6) Insurance Companies Rule:

Many home insurance companies are now requiring a Home Inspection for protection against foundation issues, water damage, flooding and to pinpoint structural issues.  Foundation issues are a common problem in some areas of the country, and can be quite costly to repair.  Even if your insurance company doesn’t demand a Home Inspection, you may qualify for a discount if you show them one was done.

7) Mold:

Is there a water leak in the basement, bathroom or kitchen? The right combination of moisture, warmth and wood can produce mold in as little as 48 hours. Allergies and respiratory issues may follow. While the Home Inspector does not specifically look for mold or mildew, and cannot say for certain whether mold or mildew is present as it may be unseen behind a wall, floor or ceiling, the Home Inspector will be certain to let you know if there is visible evidence of either.

8) To Avoid Being Hit With Major Repair Bills Right After You Move In:

Typically, at the time the home closes, buyers are the most financially vulnerable. Much of your savings has been applied towards down payment, moving and closing costs. You may also have other expenses after closing for appliances, furniture or redecorating. All of these can leave you with very little money for unexpected repairs. The last thing you need when you are stretched tight is a surprise repair bill! Sometimes you discover it during heavy rain, powerful winds, or a major snowstorm. Regardless of how it happens, it can be a real blow to your finances. A home inspection can educate you on potential future repairs so you can plan ahead!

9)  Forecasting future expenses.

An experienced home inspector can give you advice about future repairs and regular maintenance on your new home along with an approximate time frame of when the repairs should take place.

AND PERHAPS MOST IMPORTANTLY: Peace Of Mind!!

For a small percentage of the overall purchase price, you’re left with a wealth of information on one of the largest investment you’ll make in your lifetime.