Don’t Let a Costly Mistake Derail Your Home Purchase
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a home. Once your offer is accepted, you’re eager to move in. However, before making a significant financial commitment, it’s crucial to know exactly what you’re buying.
A home inspection provides an in-depth look at a property's structure and systems, helping you avoid costly surprises. But many buyers make critical mistakes during the inspection process that could cost them time, money, and unnecessary stress. Don’t worry—Cindy is here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead.
To protect your investment, avoid these eight common home inspection mistakes and make a confident purchase.
Mistake #1: Skipping Your Own Inspection
Many buyers rely solely on a professional home inspection. However, conducting your own visual assessment before making an offer allows you to:
✅ Identify potential costly repairs
✅ Spot red flags like foundation cracks or water damage
✅ Factor repair costs into your offer or walk away if needed
Before scheduling an inspection, check the property’s walls, ceilings, plumbing, roof, and foundation for signs of leaks, mold, or structural damage.
Mistake #2: Hiring the Cheapest Inspector
A home inspection is an investment in your future home, so hiring a qualified inspector is essential. Compare certifications, experience, and sample reports before making a decision. Cindy can also recommend trusted inspectors with strong reputations and firsthand experience working with her clients.
✅ Ask for recommendations from real estate professionals
✅ Verify certifications & insurance coverage
✅ Request a sample inspection report for review
Cutting corners here could lead to missed issues that cost you thousands down the line.
Mistake #3: Missing the Inspection Appointment
Being present during the home inspection allows you to:
✅ See potential issues firsthand
✅ Learn about the home’s condition directly from the inspector
✅ Ask important questions about maintenance & repairs
If you can’t attend, schedule a follow-up call to review the report in detail. Cindy will be there to ensure all key points are covered and to help you navigate any concerns.
Mistake #4: Skimming Over the Report
An inspection report is packed with valuable details about the home. Failing to read it thoroughly means you could miss serious problems. Cindy will help you review the key findings and ensure you fully understand any potential issues before moving forward.
✅ Carefully review all issues noted
✅ Address any concerns with your inspector
✅ Use the report to negotiate repairs or pricing adjustments with the seller
Mistake #5: Not Asking Questions
Your inspector is there to provide clarity—don’t be afraid to ask!
🔹 How urgent is this issue?
🔹 What would you do if this were your home?
🔹 What type of professional should I call for repairs?
🔹 How much would this repair cost?
Understanding these details helps you make an informed decision on whether to move forward. Cindy will be there to guide you through the process, ensuring you fully understand the implications and helping you take the right next steps.
Mistake #6: Expecting a Perfect Report
Every home—even new builds—has some deficiencies. Focus on major issues, such as:
✅ Structural problems
✅ Water damage
✅ Electrical or plumbing hazards
Cindy can help you understand which repairs to prioritize and negotiate with the seller effectively.
Mistake #7: Ignoring Additional Testing
If your inspector recommends specialized inspections, don’t skip them. Issues like mold, radon, asbestos, and structural damage require expert assessment. A small upfront cost could save you thousands in future repairs.
Cindy will ensure you understand when specialized inspections are necessary and help you coordinate additional testing if needed.
Mistake #8: Skipping the Re-Inspection of Repairs
Before closing, confirm that all negotiated repairs were completed properly. Some sellers cut corners or hire unqualified contractors. Re-inspection protects you from costly surprises
✅ Request receipts for completed work
✅ Consider hiring an inspector for verification
✅ Or negotiate a price reduction so you can handle repairs yourself
Cindy will ensure you verify that all agreed-upon repairs have been completed to standard, helping you avoid unexpected costs down the road.
A Home Inspection is a Smart Investment
A home inspection minimizes your risk and protects your finances. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can move forward with confidence in your home purchase.
🔹 Looking for expert home-buying guidance? Contact Cindy Savino today!
🔹 Want to learn more about the home-buying process? Check out our Home Buyer’s Guide.
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📌 Saskatchewan Housing Market Off to a Strong Start in 2025
References:
Family Handyman:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/tools/diy-home-inspection-tools/view-all/HGTV:
https://www.hgtv.com/design/real-estate/finding-the-right-home-inspectorThe New York Times:
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/23/realestate/home-inspection.htmlRealtor.com:
https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/what-does-a-home-inspector-look-for/Realty Times:
https://realtytimes.com/advicefromagents/item/37369-top-5-biggest-home-inspection-mistakesRealtor.com:
https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/home-inspection-mistakes-buyers-should-avoid/Star Tribune -
http://www.startribune.com/who-verifies-repairs-after-the-home-inspection/132844523/
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