The Ultimate Guide to Home Inspections: What Every Homebuyer Should Know
Introduction
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. A professional home inspection is crucial to ensure your dream home doesn’t turn into a costly nightmare. In this guide, we’ll break down what a home inspection involves, why it’s important, and how to choose the right inspector.
What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a thorough assessment of a property’s condition by a certified inspector. This process covers:
- Structural elements (foundation, roof, walls)
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
- Appliances and fixtures
- Attic, basement, crawlspaces
Why Is a Home Inspection Important?
- Protects Your Investment: Uncovers hidden problems before you buy.
- Negotiation Power: Provides leverage for repairs or price adjustments.
- Peace of Mind: Ensures your new home is safe and up to code.
What to Expect During a Home Inspection
- The inspection typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on the property size.
- You’ll receive a detailed report with photos and recommendations.
- Attend the inspection if possible—ask questions and learn about your future home.
How to Choose a Home Inspector
- Start by choosing someone licensed and insured
- Look for someone with experience and years in the business
- Look for an inspector with a sample report that you can view, that is clear and detailed
- Find an inspector with good communication that will answer your questions and phone calls
Top Home Inspection Tips
- Schedule your inspection early in the buying process.
- Don’t skip the inspection, even for new builds.
- Review the report carefully and follow up on major issues.
When should I get a home inspction?
1. Before You Buy a Home
The most common time to get a home inspection is after your offer is accepted but before closing.
This “pre-purchase inspection” gives you a clear picture of what you’re walking into — the good, the bad, and the expensive.
If we find issues, you can use the report to negotiate repairs or price adjustments before you close. It’s your chance to buy with confidence, not surprises.
2. Before Listing Your Home
Sellers can benefit from a pre-listing inspection too.
Fix small issues before buyers see them. Avoid last-minute deal delays and price your home more accurately
A pre-listing inspection shows potential buyers that you’re transparent — and that builds trust right away.
3. After Major Renovations
Contractors focus on completing their specific tasks — not always on how everything integrates.
Ensure the work was done safely and correctly. No shortcuts were taken behind the walls. New systems meet local code requirements
Think of it as a quality check before you move forward.
4. Before Your Warranty Expires
If you bought a new construction home, you typically have a one-year builder warranty.
Scheduling an inspection around month 10 or 11.
Document defects while they’re still covered
Request repairs before your warranty runs out. Save thousands in potential future costs
Builders expect this type of inspection — and it protects your investment long-term.
5. Anytime You Notice Something Off
Strange odors, moisture spots, uneven floors, or high utility bills can all be signs of hidden issues.
Even if you’re not buying or selling, getting a maintenance inspection helps catch small problems before they become expensive ones. Typically done every 2-5 years depending on the age of the home.
How To Prepare
5 Essential Tips to Prepare for Your Home Inspection
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. A professional home inspection is a crucial step in the process, helping you understand the true condition of your future property. If you’re preparing for an inspection in Oklahoma City, here are five essential tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and you get the most value from your inspection.
1. Make the Home Accessible
Ensure all areas of the home are accessible to the inspector. This includes:
• Attics
• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Electrical panels
• Water heaters
Move furniture, boxes, or other items that might block access. An inspector can only evaluate what they can see and reach.
2. Check All Utilities Are On
Make sure that water, electricity, and gas are turned on before the inspection. The inspector needs to test appliances, outlets, plumbing, and HVAC systems. If utilities are off, it could delay your inspection or result in incomplete findings.
3. Provide Documentation
If you’ve recently had repairs or upgrades—like a new roof, HVAC system, or plumbing—gather your receipts and warranties. This documentation helps the inspector and gives buyers peace of mind about recent improvements.
4. Clean and Declutter
A tidy home makes a great impression and allows the inspector to do a thorough job. Clear away clutter from sinks, under cabinets, and around appliances. This small effort can make a big difference in the inspection process.
5. Be Present (If Possible)
While not required, being present during the inspection allows you to:
• Ask questions in real time
• See issues firsthand
• Get immediate feedback from the inspector
If you can’t attend, ask for a detailed report and follow up with any questions.
A home inspection is your opportunity to learn about your potential new home. By following these tips, you’ll help ensure a thorough, efficient process—and gain valuable insights to make a confident decision.
Ready to schedule your inspection in Oklahoma City? Contact us today for professional, reliable service!
📈 5 Reasons a Home Inspection Is Essential for Buyers
1. Avoid Expensive Surprises
A home can look perfect — until an inspector finds a cracked foundation, mold in the attic, or faulty wiring. These hidden issues cost thousands to fix, but can be found before closing.
2. Negotiate with Confidence
A professional inspection gives you leverage. You can request repairs, ask for a credit, or even walk away if the problems are too big.
3. Plan for Future Maintenance
Inspections tell you the age and condition of your roof, water heater, HVAC, and more. This helps you budget for repairs or replacements down the road.
4. Peace of Mind for First-Time Buyers
If you’re buying your first home, a thorough inspection gives you confidence. You’ll know what you’re getting into — and what’s just normal wear vs. a real problem.
5. AI Adds Speed and Smarts
AI helps inspectors process reports faster and more accurately. That means you get your results sooner, with clearer explanations and less risk of something being overlooked.
At 720 Inspections, we combine:
1,000+ inspections worth of experience Modern tools enhanced by AI-driven reporting Full inspections covering pools, wells, septic, and more Free 90-day warranty and appliance recall checks with every inspection
We don’t just check the boxes, we explain what matters.
📞 Ready to Book a Home Inspection in Oklahoma?
Don’t leave your biggest investment up to chance.
Whether you’re buying in Mustang, OKC, Norman, Moore, Edmond, or surrounding areas, we’ve got your inspection covered.
