What to Expect from a Home Inspection

Your Fletcher Bright Realty agent will probably recommend that you order a home inspection before committing to the purchase of a home. While it may appear to be an unnecessary expense (they typically cost $300–$500), a thorough home inspection can actually save you thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs—or from unwittingly buying a money pit.

A home inspector will take two to four hours to complete a detailed walk-through of the home you're looking to buy. It is a top-to-bottom review of the physical structure, as well as its mechanical and electrical systems, including roof, ceilings, walls, floors, windows and doors. The inspector will check that major appliances are functional; scrutinize the heating and air conditioning system; examine the plumbing and electrical systems; and crawl up into the attic and down into the basement.

All the while, the inspector will be taking notes and pictures and, if you're tagging along, commenting on what he sees. Most importantly, he will provide an objective opinion on the home's condition, detached from the emotional roller coaster you may have experienced during the entire home buying process.

The inspection is not a pass/fail exam, and the inspector will NOT tell you if you're getting a good deal on the home. But, you will have lots of good information on your potential new home and gain confidence in your decision to move ahead with the purchase - or find out enough to pass on it.

If you need help with Chattanooga, TN area home inspections, contact Fletcher Bright for more information today.