Whether you’re buying or selling a home, understanding home inspections can make a big difference in your experience—and your wallet. Here’s a breakdown of what you should know.

1. Inspections aren’t always required
Home inspections are generally encouraged for buyers, but they’re not mandatory. In a competitive market, some buyers choose to waive inspections to make their offer more appealing. While this can help you win a bidding war, it also comes with risk—uncovered issues could lead to costly repairs down the line.

2. Inspection results can affect the deal
If an inspector finds problems, buyers may ask the seller to make repairs or offer a lower price to account for the issues. Inspection contingencies give buyers the option to negotiate or even back out of the deal without losing their earnest money, depending on the findings.

3. Buyers typically pay for inspections
Home inspection costs vary, usually ranging between $250 and $500, depending on the property and location. Since the inspection benefits the buyer, it’s generally their responsibility to cover the cost, often included in closing costs.

4. Sellers can benefit from pre-listing inspections
Some sellers choose to have their home inspected before listing. This helps identify potential issues that could slow the sale and gives the seller the chance to address them ahead of time. In many states, sellers are required to disclose any problems discovered, even if they haven’t been fixed.

A home inspection can feel stressful, but it’s a valuable tool for protecting your investment—whether you’re buying your first home or preparing to sell. Working with an experienced real estate professional can help guide you through the process and ensure you’re prepared for whatever the inspection uncovers.