1. Your new home will have problems.

I usually start my home inspections by telling my client, “Homes are like people. We are all a little messed up.” My point is to prepare them that there will be a list of issues and that is OK.

2. Almost anything can be fixed.

There are a few things that terrify a client when they hear them: mold, asbestos, safety. Yes they can be scary but no scarier than a furnace that needs replacing or windows that need repairs and painting.

Let us, your humble home inspector, point you in the right direction. Almost everything can be fixed and just because it was here, does not make it a ‘bad house’.

3. Not everything needs to be fixed.

No home is perfect and not everything needs to be fixed. Even my own home has repairs that need to be done and systems that are ready to be updated. It is just part of owning a home. Relax!

4. We can not predict the future.

I really wish we could tell you how long the roof will last or when the furnace will need to be replaced. It’s just not possible. We can give you an idea how long they normally last and what kind of condition they are in now. But no one can predict the future.

5. We're here to find the big stuff.

Things of consequence like water, safety, structure. We will not find or report on everything wrong in the home. That is just not what we are here for. I recommend taking a look at our sample report to give you a better idea. Owning and maintaining a home is a continuous process. Every year I find, and sometimes fix, things in my home that have been there since it was built.

6. Get your heart and head in check.

It can be incredibly tough to step back from your love of the home to see it as an investment. Once you see our list of repairs and observations, it can be a bit overwhelming. Take a deep breath.

Our report may include a few things that need to be done now. But it will mostly be a to do list while you own the home. Not everything needs to be done right away and a good inspector will help you understand that.

Take things one at a time and don’t let a long list affect your love of the home.