You found your dream home, the offer was accepted, and now… it’s time for the home inspection. Cue the nerves. The inspector’s report just landed in your inbox, and it’s pages long. Is your dream home a disaster waiting to happen?
What Should You Actually Worry About?
Not every issue in a home inspection is a dealbreaker. Some are minor fixes, while others are major red flags. Here’s what’s truly important:
🚨 Major Structural Issues: Foundation cracks, sagging floors, or shifting walls? These could be expensive to fix.
🏠 Roof Problems: Roofs don’t last forever. If it’s near the end of its lifespan (or leaking), it could mean thousands in repairs.
⚡ Electrical Hazards: Outdated wiring, aluminum wiring, or overloaded panels could be dangerous and costly to replace.
💧 Plumbing Issues: Major leaks, water damage, or sewer line problems? Big red flag.
🐜 Pest Infestations: Termites, carpenter ants, or rodents could mean structural damage.
What’s NOT Worth Panicking Over?
🛠 Cosmetic Issues: Peeling paint, scuffed floors, outdated fixtures—easy fixes.
🚰 Minor Plumbing Issues: A leaky faucet or a slow drain? Not a dealbreaker.
💡 Old Appliances: If they work, they’re fine. You can always replace them later.
🪟 Foggy Windows: Seals break over time, but it’s not a major issue.
What to Do Next?
- Prioritize the major concerns – If something serious comes up, you can renegotiate repairs or credits.
- Don’t nitpick the small stuff – No house is perfect, even new construction.
- Work with your realtor (hi, that’s me!) to figure out what’s reasonable to ask for and what’s a personal choice.
A home inspection is not about making a perfect house—it’s about making sure you’re not walking into a money pit.