Buyer’s Inspection

Mid-Missouri’s Best Buyer’s Inspections from a certified InterNACHI Inspector.

Your Guide to a Buyer’s Inspection: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Property

Buying a property is one of the biggest investments you will ever make in your life. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration and research. One important step in the process of purchasing a property is a buyer’s inspection. A buyer’s inspection is a thorough examination of the property you are interested in buying. The inspection is conducted by a professional inspector who examines the property’s condition, safety, and structural integrity. In this article, we provide you with a comprehensive guide about a buyer’s inspection, including what’s included, frequently asked questions, and more. As always, please feel free to call or text (314) 948-3058 or send a message through our contact form if you have any questions or concerns.

What is a Buyer’s Inspection?

A buyer’s inspection is a visual examination of a property’s condition. The inspection is usually conducted by a professional inspector who examines the property’s major systems and components, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more. The inspector will also look for signs of damage, wear and tear, and safety hazards.

During the inspection, the inspector will take photos and notes to document their findings. After the inspection, the inspector will provide a report to the buyer, which includes a detailed description of the property’s condition, any deficiencies or safety hazards, and recommendations for repairs or improvements.

Why is a Buyer’s Inspection Important?

A buyer’s inspection is important for several reasons. Here are some of the key benefits:

It helps you make an informed decision: A buyer’s inspection provides you with valuable information about the property’s condition, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or negotiate repairs or a lower price.

It can save you money: A buyer’s inspection can uncover hidden defects or safety hazards that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. By knowing about these issues upfront, you can negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price.

It provides peace of mind: Buying a property can be stressful, but a buyer’s inspection can provide peace of mind by giving you a clear understanding of the property’s condition.

What’s Included in a Buyer’s Inspection?

At ARC, our thorough inspection for home-buyers will assess the condition of a residential property’s visible and readily accessible components. We work hard to ensure that an inspection report is made available within 24 hours.

The following components will be included in the inspection:

Roofing System
Foundation & Crawl Space
Structural Components
Areas Suspected of Moisture Intrusion
Decks
Stoves, Fireplaces, & Chimneys

Exterior (doors, windows, cladding)
Interior (doors, windows, walls, floors, ceilings, stairs)
Attic, Insulation, & Ventilation
Plumbing System
Electrical System
HVAC Systems

A thermal imaging camera and moisture meter will be used during the inspection as necessary to diagnose areas of moisture intrusion. There is no extra fee for this.

Final Thoughts

A buyer’s inspection is a crucial step in the process of buying a property. It provides valuable information about the property’s condition, helps you make an informed decision, and can save you money in the long run. While some people feel like they could buy a home without a buyer’s inspection, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. If you’re in the market for a new property, don’t forget to schedule a buyer’s inspection before making a final decision. It’s a small investment that could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Uncover Hidden Issues Before It’s Too Late!

Hire ARC Home Inspections

To Help Protect Your Investment & Avoid Costly Surprises.

VIEW OUR Services Request Inspection

Here are some frequently asked questions about buyer’s inspections:

Who pays for the buyer's inspection?

Typically, the buyer pays for the inspection, but it can be negotiated as part of the purchase agreement.

How long does a buyer's inspection take?

The length of the inspection depends on the size and complexity of the property. On average, a buyer’s inspection takes 3-5 hours.

Do I need to be present during the inspection?

While it’s not required, it’s a good idea to be present during the inspection so you can ask questions and get a better understanding of the property’s condition.

What if the inspector finds issues with the property?

If the inspector finds issues with the property, you have several options. You can negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price with the seller, or you can choose to walk away from the deal altogether.

What if the seller has already provided a disclosure statement?

A disclosure statement is a document that lists any known issues or defects with the property. While a disclosure statement is helpful, it’s not a substitute for a buyer’s inspection. The inspection may uncover issues that the seller was not aware of or did not disclose.

Can I do my own inspection?

While it’s possible to do your own inspection, it’s not recommended. Professional inspectors have the training, experience, and tools to identify issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

How much is a Buyer's Inspection?

Buyer’s inspection fees depend on the size of the property. See our pricing for details.

Mid-Missouri’s Most Reliable Home Inspection

We provide reliable home inspection services to home-buyers and sellers in Mid-Missouri, including Cuba, St. James, Rolla, Jefferson City, Owensville, Union, Washington, St. Clair, and surrounding areas. See All Service Areas.

At ARC Home Inspections, our investigative home inspections make the home-buying or selling experience significantly easier to manage—putting the property under the microscope so that you’re aware of potentially concerning issues before a transaction is final. Contact us today to REQUEST AN INSPECTION.

Ask about current package discounts, as well as discounts for select individual services.

Evening appointments are available, and weekend appointments can be scheduled by request. We accept online payments.

Contact Us