Decoding Home Insights: Walkthroughs vs. Full Home Inspections

A cracked foundation would only be found during a full home inspection inspection

Buying a home is a big deal, probably the biggest financial move most people make. So, it's totally understandable that you'd want to make sure you're not getting any unpleasant surprises along with your new keys.

Now, sometimes folks ask us about something called a "walkthrough

inspection." It's a quicker and cheaper option compared to a full-blown home inspection. But here's the lowdown on the difference:

A home inspection is like a deep dive into the condition of the place you're eyeing. It involves poking around for about 2-3 hours, checking out everything from the attic to the electrical system. The cost usually falls between $400 and $800, depending on the size of the place and what exactly needs inspecting. Plus, you get a handy report afterward.

On the flip side, a walkthrough is like a speed date with the house. It's quick, maybe less than an hour, and the inspector just gives you a verbal rundown of what they see, pointing out any glaring issues. But they won't be delving into the nitty-gritty details or producing a report. So, it's like taking notes without the notes.

Now, why would someone opt for a walkthrough? Well, there are a few reasons, but honestly, they're not great reasons if you're aiming to avoid any nasty surprises.

First up, some folks might not realize the full scope of what a home inspection covers. They might think a walkthrough is good enough, not realizing what they're missing out on. Educating them about the value of a thorough inspection is key here.

Then there are those who figure the house looks fine and just want a quick thumbs-up. But skipping the full inspection means you're rolling the dice on hidden issues.

And of course, there's the budget concern. But if you can't afford a proper inspection, can you afford unexpected repairs down the line?

We've had our fair share of discoveries during full inspections, like moisture lurking in attics or most commonly dodgy wiring schemes. Stuff that might've slipped through the cracks with just a walkthrough.

Here is an example of dodgy wiring that is a serious safety hazard. This was only found because my clients wanted a full home inspection.

Now, there's one somewhat understandable scenario where a walkthrough might come into play: multiple offers on a hot property. In that case, buyers might opt for a walkthrough to avoid adding a condition that could put their offer at the bottom of the pile. But even then, you're still not getting the full picture.

So, what's the solution? Drumroll, please... a pre-offer inspection! It's like peeking under the hood before you even make an offer. Sure, there's a bit of risk involved if your offer doesn't get accepted, but think of it as insurance for your peace of mind.

And hey, speaking of peace of mind, if you do go for a pre-offer inspection with us and your offer doesn't pan out, We'll knock 20% off your next inspection. How's that for a safety net?

Now, why do we steer clear of walkthroughs? Simple. They just don't meet the standards we hold ourselves to as certified inspectors. Plus, they leave everyone involved more vulnerable in case of any disputes down the line.

So, bottom line? Go for the full home inspection. It's worth it, trust us.

And hey, if you've got any questions or want to chat about scheduling an inspection, we're here for you. Just give us a shout!