Home Inspections Aren’t Just for Real Estate Transactions!

When most people hear "home inspection," they immediately think of buying or selling a house. It’s a fair association, given that inspections are often a standard part of real estate transactions. But here's the truth: home inspections are much more versatile and valuable than that. Whether you're a homeowner, a landlord, or even just a curious property investor, a home inspection can be a proactive tool to maintain or enhance your property.
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Let’s dive into why home inspections aren’t just tied to real estate deals and explore the benefits for homeowners outside the buying and selling process.

The Myth: Home Inspections Are Only for Buyers and Sellers
This myth likely stems from the fact that most home inspections occur during the buying process. Buyers want to know what they’re getting into, and sellers sometimes conduct pre-listing inspections to address potential issues in advance. It also doesn’t help that other home inspectors use cliches such as “helping you make an informed buying decision” or “we work for buyers and sellers” and marketing buyers and sellers inspections as if they are any different from each other (they aren't). While these scenarios are common, they don’t define the full scope of what home inspectors do.

That's a sign I could get used to seeing!

Why This Myth Persists
The real estate industry heavily markets home inspections as part of the buying process. Unfortunately, this narrow focus leads many homeowners to think inspections are irrelevant unless a transaction is involved. 

The reality? Home inspections are a vital service for anyone who owns or cares for property. They’re an investment in your home’s longevity and your peace of mind. I have shared with more than one client that I provide valuable information that is relevant long after a deed has changed hands and use a long term, systematic approach.

When Should You Schedule a Home Inspection?
If you’re wondering when to schedule a home inspection, here are some guidelines:

• Every 3 Years: A regular inspection keeps you informed about your home’s condition, especially components such as a water heater and air exchanger. We can also alert you of issues down the road to help avoid expensive and inconvenient emergency repairs.
• After Severe Weather Events: Storms, heavy rains, or high winds can cause damage you might not immediately notice, especially to roofs and attics.
• Before Major Upgrades: Understand your home’s current state before investing in large renovations. The bonus is that if walls are opened up, we can better inspect components behind the drywall.
• After Purchasing a Home Without an Inspection: If you skipped an inspection during the buying process, it’s never too late to learn about your property.

I founded Inside Edge because I believe every homeowner deserves to know their property inside and out and desire to empower home occupants to maintain a safe and comfortable home for their family.

Remember, whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, our thorough and unbiased home inspections will be the exact same, and will provide the insights you need to make informed decisions. Contact us today to learn more!