Should I Walk with My Home Inspector?
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Should I Walk with My Home Inspector?
If you’re buying a home, it’s natural to want to follow the home inspector around during the inspection. After all, this is your future house, and you’re eager to learn about it. The good news? Yes, you absolutely can walk with your home inspector! But there’s a balance to strike.
Here’s how to make the most of your time without disrupting the process:
1. Yes, Walk Along—It’s Your Inspection Too
Walking with the inspector is a great opportunity to see your potential home through a professional’s eyes. We can point out things as we go—good, bad, or just quirky. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and gain insights into the home’s condition and systems.
2. But Let Us Do Our Job
While we love answering questions, it’s important to remember that we need time to focus and document everything thoroughly. Think of us like detectives—we’re looking for clues about the home’s overall health. If you’re walking with us, try to save questions for natural pauses rather than peppering us mid-step. This ensures we don’t miss anything important.
3. Observe, Learn, and Take Notes
Bring a notebook or take pictures so you can refer back to what you learn during the inspection. For example, we might show you where the water shut-off valve is or explain how to maintain the HVAC system. These are things you’ll want to remember long after the inspection is over.
4. Know When to Step Back
There are parts of the inspection that aren’t very exciting (like crawling through a cramped attic or checking a crawlspace). During these moments, it’s perfectly fine to hang back. We’ll report back to you with any findings, so you won’t miss out on anything important.
The Bottom Line
Walking with your home inspector is a fantastic way to learn about your new home and feel confident in your purchase. Just keep in mind that we’re there to do a thorough job, so a little space now and then helps us stay focused.
Do I have to walk with the inspector?
No, it’s entirely optional. Some buyers prefer to stick around and observe, while others let us work independently and review the report later.
Can I ask questions during the inspection?
Absolutely! We encourage questions—it’s your home, and we want you to feel informed. Just try to save them for natural pauses in the process.
What should I bring if I walk along?
A notebook or your phone for taking notes and photos is a great idea. It helps you remember the details we discuss.