Yes, you should always get a home inspection. It protects you by revealing hidden problems with the plumbing, electrical, and structural systems before you finalize the purchase.
Why is a home inspection so important?
A home inspection is your chance to take a deep dive into the property. During a quick 15-minute walkthrough, a house might look beautiful on the surface. But, a professional inspection looks closely at the unseen mechanical and structural systems. As a result, it gives you a clear idea of what you are actually buying before you commit.
Who can conduct a home inspection in Washington?
In Washington state, you can legally do the inspection yourself. You can also hire a licensed home inspector or a general contractor. However, we strongly recommend hiring a certified home inspector. A professional can talk intelligently about every specific aspect of the property. So, your dad or “Uncle Scooter” might want to help out. Still, they cannot officially conduct the home inspection for you unless they hold a valid license.
Have more questions about home inspections? Visit spokanehomeguy.com or call 509-990-SOLD (7653) — we’re happy to walk you through it.
FAQ
If the inspector finds issues, you can usually negotiate with the seller. You might ask for repairs, request a price reduction, or even walk away from the deal entirely. Your real estate agent will help guide your next steps.
A standard inspection usually takes about two to three hours. The exact timeframe depends on the size and age of the home. Because of that, we suggest buyers attend the final hour to review the findings in person home inspection walkthrough guide.
The buyer almost always pays for the inspection. It is an out-of-pocket cost paid directly to the inspector on the day of the service. Ultimately, you pay for this because the inspector works specifically for you, not the seller.
