1. Rent or Buy? | 2. Clean Up Your Credit | 3. Get Pre-Qualified | 4. Find an Agent |
5. Get Pre-Approved | 6. Make an Offer | 7. Home Inspection | 8. Prepare for Closing |
9. Attend the Closing

7. Arrange for a Home Inspection

You have a right to inspect the home you've made an offer on, and indeed, most purchase agreements are contingent upon inspection. We encourage you to hire a qualified professional to inspect the home. If there are any serious problems, like cracks in the foundation, water damage, or a leaky roof, you may get a credit, the chance to lower your offer, or withdraw it altogether.

A thorough inspection is an objective examination of the home, from top to bottom, inside and out, including heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems, walls, floors, ceilings, foundation, roof, gutters, spouts, insulation and ventilation, major appliances, garage, etc. The inspector you hire should check everything and leave you with a detailed report listing the condition of each item, as well as recommended repairs.