Home inspections are extremely beneficial. After all, you wouldn’t want to buy a home that needs $25,000 in fixes.
Given that house inspections can prevent a lot of heartaches, many buyers choose to hire an inspector to check out the home. Home inspections also cost money which can be a deterring factor for some.
So, how much does a house inspection cost? That depends on a few factors. Keep reading for everything you need to know about house inspection costs.
An Overview of a House Inspection
Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime. That is why it is important to have a professional perform a house inspection prior to purchase. This is especially true if you are purchasing an older home.
The inspector will check for signs of wear and tear, as well as any damage that may have occurred over time. They will also test for any safety hazards.
This report will give you a general overview of the condition of the property and will help you make an informed decision about whether or not to purchase the home.
Costs of a House Inspection
A standard home inspection usually costs between $200 and $500 depending on many factors. These factors include:
Size and Age of the Home
Older homes generally cost more to inspect due to the increased likelihood of hidden damage. Larger homes take longer to inspect and also cost more.
Geographic Location
Inspection costs can vary greatly depending on the geographic location of the house. In some areas, inspectors may charge by the hour, while in others, they may charge a flat rate. Inspectors in rural areas may charge less than those in urban areas.
Inspector’s Experience
The inspector’s experience is the number one factor in determining the house inspection cost. An inspector with many years of experience will generally charge more than a new inspector.
Inspectors who have a lot of experience in inspecting older homes will also charge more than those who only inspect new homes. The type of inspection being performed is also a factor.
Some inspectors may charge extra for certain services, such as:
Water Testing
Water testing is typically an additional cost that is not included in the initial inspection fee. It can range in cost from $50 to $200, depending on the type of test being performed.
Thermal Testing
It is important to have a thermal inspection done as part of the home inspection process. A thermal inspection uses infrared technology to identify areas of the home that are not energy efficient.
This information can be used to make repairs or improvements to the home that will save money on energy bills in the long run.
Termite Inspection
The cost of a termite inspection depends on the size of the home and the severity of the infestation. Termite inspections are important because termites can cause serious damage to a home, and the sooner they are detected, the easier they are to control.
Buyers should always get at least two bids on inspection services to compare costs.
Cost of a House Inspection vs. Value of the House
When considering the cost of a house inspection, it is important to keep in mind the value of the house. The average cost of a home in the United States is $226,000, so a house inspection would be less than 1% of the cost of the home.
Although a house inspection is not required when purchasing a home, it is a good idea to have one done. A house inspection can reveal hidden problems that could end up costing the buyer a lot of money in the long run.
What House Inspectors Look For
When it comes to home inspections, there are a variety of things that inspectors look for in order to ensure that the home is up to code and safe for habitation. Some of the most common things that inspectors look for include the following:
- Foundation
- Framing
- Electrical system
- Plumbing
- Heating
- Cooling systems
This is to ensure that they are functioning properly. By thoroughly inspecting all of these key areas of the home, inspectors can provide a clear picture of the home’s condition and safety.
How to Save on the Cost of a House Inspection
A home inspection is an important step in the home-buying process, but it can be costly. Here are some tips to help you save on the cost of a house inspection:
Shop Around
Before you select an inspector, be sure to ask for references and check them out carefully. Compare the cost of the inspection to the purchase price of the home to get an idea of what it will cost as a percentage of the total purchase price.
Ask for Discounts
When you are ready to purchase a home, it is important to ask for discounts on the cost of a house inspection. Many home inspectors will offer discounts if you ask for them, so it is always worth asking.
Choose a Certified Inspector
Certified inspectors have the training and experience necessary to properly inspect a home. They also have the equipment necessary to properly assess the condition of a home.
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Waive the Inspection
If you are looking to save on the cost of a house inspection, you may want to consider waiving the inspection. This means that you will not have an inspector come out to look at the property before you purchase it.
While this may save you money upfront, it could end up costing you more in the long run if there are hidden problems with the property that you are not aware of. Make sure you do your research and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Learn How Much Does a House Inspection Cost Today
For most buyers, a house inspection is a worthwhile investment that can help ensure you’re not buying a money pit. The cost of a house inspection varies depending on the size and age of the home.
If you’re thinking about buying a home, be sure to learn about how much does a house inspection cost so you can avoid any nasty surprises down the road.
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