Do I really need an inspection, or is that just extra money?

Do I really need a home inspection?

You're wondering whether a home inspection adds value or just costs more money upfront. Home inspections typically cost $300-500 and give you a professional assessment of the property's condition before you buy. The inspector checks major systems like electrical, plumbing, heating, and structural elements, then provides a detailed report of any problems they find.

You can use the inspection report to negotiate with the seller. If the inspector finds significant issues, you can ask the seller to fix them, reduce the purchase price, or provide a credit at closing. You can also walk away from the purchase if major problems come up that you don't want to handle.

Most buyers choose to get an inspection because it reveals problems you can't see during a walkthrough. Without an inspection, you might discover expensive repairs after closing when you're responsible for all costs. Some buyers skip inspections in competitive markets or when buying properties they plan to renovate extensively.

Talk with your real estate agent about whether an inspection makes sense for your situation. They can help you weigh the inspection cost against the potential risks and explain how inspections typically work in your local market.