Home buying question: Do I need an inspection? And, how much does it cost?

by Brian Huie on 4/29/2024

Yes, I always recommend my buyers inspect a home. General home inspections typically range from $400 to $800.

In our current market conditions, most sellers procure their own pre-inspection to provide to buyers. However, even if a buyer is making an offer on a home in which the sellers are providing their own inspection report, I advise my buyers to do a pre-inspection -at least during the first offer the make in order to better understand what the inspection report includes and which items they may consider “serious.” During a slower market, if a buyer is interested in a less competitive home, or under certain other conditions, I may advise my buyers to make an offer with an inspection contingency, instead of inspecting the home prior to making an offer.

Understanding the property you are planning to purchase is important- and this includes understanding costs to bring maintenance up to date, as well as potential minor and major repairs. This not only provides confidence in your decision, and peace of mind. Additionally, many sellers will value an offer in which the buyer has inspected the home, because these buyers are less likely to get cold feet and back out.

The cost of an inspection will vary based on the size of the home. A small condo inspection with an inspection report included will typically cost around $400, with a large home costing as much as $800. Additionally, I recommend scheduling a sewer scope when possible, which is typically around $200-500. 

For more information on home inspections and what they include, click here.