🕵️‍♂️ What’s the Deal with Home Inspections?

Buying a home is exciting—until someone crawls into the attic and starts pointing out everything wrong with it.

Welcome to the home inspection.

If you’re a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, this post will break down what inspections are, why they matter, what they cost, and what could go wrong if you skip one. (Spoiler: a lot.)

🛠 What Is a Home Inspection, Really?

A home inspection is a non-invasive evaluation of the property’s condition—roof to foundation. A licensed home inspector checks the home’s major systems and components, then provides a report that outlines any current issues or red flags.

In other words: you’re hiring someone to tell you what’s wrong with the house before it’s yours. It’s not about nitpicking—it’s about protecting your investment.

🧰 Why You Should Always Get One

Sure, skipping the inspection might seem like a time- or money-saver in a hot market. But here’s what’s at stake:

• You could miss major problems like foundation issues, roof leaks, or old electrical wiring

• If problems show up after closing, you're stuck paying out of pocket

• You may lose leverage in negotiating repairs or price

• It can be harder to back out of the deal without an inspection contingency

In short: it's your safety net. If something big is wrong, the inspection gives you options.

🔍 What Types of Inspections Are Available?

Most buyers get a general home inspection, but depending on the property, you might want to add:

• Pest inspection (especially in older homes or wooded areas)

• Radon test (common in Central Indiana)

• Sewer scope (for older pipes or signs of drainage issues)

• Mold inspection (if there’s visible damage or musty odors)

• HVAC, chimney, or roof specialists if any systems seem questionable

We’ll help you decide which add-ons are worth the investment based on the home’s age and condition.

💵 How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?

In Indianapolis and surrounding areas, a general home inspection usually runs $350–$500, depending on the size and age of the home. Add-on inspections may cost an extra $100–$250 each.

Is it worth it? Always. Spending a few hundred now could save you thousands later.

🧓 Enter: Inspection Dad

You know him. We love him. He’s the dad who shows up to the inspection with a flashlight, tape measure, and more questions than the buyer.

He’s climbing into the crawlspace. He’s bringing his own ladder. He’s ready.

And honestly? We love when dads (or moms!) come to inspections. It’s one of those moments where real estate gets real—and everyone wants to make sure their kid is buying the right home.

I’ll probably be that dad one day.

🏡 Thinking About Buying?

Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, a good inspection is one of the most important steps in the process. At Best Life Realty Group, we walk you through it all—setting it up, reviewing the report, and helping you decide what to do with the results.

Because no one wants to find out about a leaky roof after closing day.

Have questions about inspections or the home buying process? Shoot me a text 317-629-0070.