Inspecting the physical condition of a house is an important part of the home-buying process and should be included in your purchase contract as a condition of closing the sale. It is important to conduct a home inspection to avoid a costly mistake by purchasing a property in need of major repairs.

A certified home inspector is a professional who will conduct an inspection of the general condition of the home. The inspector you hire  should look for:

• Defects or malfunctions in the building's structure

• Systems and physical components:

  • Roof

  • Plumbing

  • Electrical and heating/cooling systems

  • Floor surfaces and paint

  • Windows and doors

  • Foundation

• Detect pest infestations or dry rot and similar damage.

• Examine the land around the house for issues concerning grading, drainage, retaining walls, and plants affecting the house.

If the inspection reports show that the house is in good shape, you can proceed with the purchase, knowing that you're getting what you paid for.

If the inspections bring problems you can negotiate to have the seller pay for necessary repairs or to lower the purchase price or you can back out of the deal, assuming your contract is written to allow you to do so.