5 Common Home Inspection Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them!)

Buying a home is a big deal—it’s likely one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. And while it’s an exciting process, the home inspection step is crucial. It’s your chance to uncover potential issues before committing to the purchase. But if you’re not careful, a few missteps could lead to costly headaches down the road.

To help you navigate this step smoothly, here are five common home inspection mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping the Inspection Appointment

The Mistake:

Some buyers assume that reading the report later is enough, so they skip the actual inspection. But if you’re not there in person, you miss out on a golden opportunity to see issues firsthand and ask important questions.

How to Avoid It:

Make sure to be present during the inspection! This gives you the chance to walk through the home with the inspector, get real-time explanations, and understand which issues are minor versus major. It’s also easier to grasp the seriousness of a problem when you see it in person rather than reading about it in a report later.

2. Hiring the First Inspector You Find

The Mistake:

Not all home inspectors are created equal. Choosing one based solely on price or convenience can mean you end up with someone who rushes through the job or misses critical problems.

How to Avoid It:

Take your time researching inspectors. Look at reviews, ask for recommendations, and check their credentials. A good inspector will be thorough, experienced, and willing to explain their findings in detail. A little extra effort upfront can save you from major surprises later!

3. Skimming Over the Inspection Report

The Mistake:

It’s easy to feel relieved once the inspection is over, but don’t make the mistake of just glancing at the report without fully understanding it. Some buyers assume “no major issues” means everything is perfect, while others might downplay small problems that could turn into big ones.

How to Avoid It:

Read the report carefully—every single page. If something doesn’t make sense, ask your inspector for clarification. Pay special attention to anything that could lead to expensive repairs or safety hazards. Even minor concerns should be noted so you can plan for future maintenance.

4. Brushing Off Serious Problems

The Mistake:

Falling in love with a house can make you want to ignore red flags. But downplaying significant issues—like a leaky roof, faulty wiring, or foundation cracks—can lead to costly repairs that could have been addressed before closing.

How to Avoid It:

If the inspector flags a major issue, take it seriously. Get a second opinion from a contractor if needed, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the home needs more work than you’re willing (or able) to take on. It’s better to deal with potential problems now than be stuck with expensive surprises later.

5. Not Using the Report to Negotiate

The Mistake:

Many buyers assume they have to accept the home as-is or worry about asking for too much after the inspection. But skipping negotiations can leave you paying for repairs that should have been the seller’s responsibility.

How to Avoid It:

Use the inspection report to your advantage! If significant repairs are needed, you can ask the seller to fix them, request a price reduction, or negotiate a credit toward closing costs. You don’t have to be aggressive—just reasonable. Remember, you’re making a huge investment, and it’s only fair to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection is your best chance to catch issues before committing to a purchase, so don’t rush through it. By attending the inspection, hiring a qualified inspector, reviewing the report carefully, taking problems seriously, and negotiating wisely, you’ll set yourself up for a much smoother home-buying experience.

Buying a home should be exciting—not stressful. Taking the right steps during the inspection can help ensure your new home is a dream come true instead of a money pit.