Why You Should Never Skip a Home Inspection When Buying a House

Finding your dream home is an exciting moment. You’ve probably imagined where the furniture would go, how the morning sun would pour into the balcony, and the smell of your first cup of coffee in your new space. But this is exactly when you need to pause—and make sure you don’t skip one crucial step: the home inspection.

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Even if a property looks perfect on the surface, buying without an inspection could expose you to risks you can't afford to overlook.

Typically, a home inspection takes place after your offer is accepted but before closing. While the specifics vary by state, inspections usually cover all the major systems and structures, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.

Here are three key benefits of getting a home inspection:

1. Spot Hidden Issues EarlyA house might look flawless, but there could be underlying problems that aren’t visible to the untrained eye. Identifying them before closing helps you make an informed decision.

2. Gain Negotiating PowerBased on the inspector’s report, you can ask the seller to fix the issues or adjust the price accordingly. This is where having a reliable agent by your side is essential.

3. Buy with Peace of MindAfter all the research and house hunting, an inspection gives you that final reassurance to move forward with confidence.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), skipping a home inspection can lead to unexpected costs and headaches in the future. Still, recent data shows that nearly 1 in 4 buyers waive inspections—especially during competitive spring markets where multiple offers are common. But choosing to waive it can come with serious risks.

Instead of skipping the inspection to win the deal, try other strategies to make your offer more appealing. Consider being flexible with the closing date or presenting solid financing terms. Talk with your agent to find the best approach.