If you are planning on buying a home, you may wonder whether you should skip getting a home inspection. You may be looking at beautiful homes and think that getting a home inspection is an expense that you would rather avoid. However, it is important to understand what is at stake if you avoid this important and sometimes optional part of the homebuying process. A home could look perfectly fine to the naked eye but could be riddled with damage and safety issues. The following points represent a few things that you might not notice just by looking at the physical appearance of a property. These are things that a home inspection could reveal. 

Basement and Attic Issues

These two critical areas are prone to moisture problems. The moisture can promote mold growth. It can also cause damage. Basements with moisture issues may develop cracks, and the cracks can lead to water intrusion and cause damage. Attics that are exposed to long-term moisture cause roof damage. Since many homeowners rarely access their attics and basements, this hidden damage may not be known to the home sellers. However, they will be discovered during a home inspection.

Chimney Issues

Many homeowners never use their fireplaces. This can lead to the fireplace looking intact, but there may be hidden issues. You likely do not want the headache of trying to use the fireplace in your new home for the first time and discovering that it needs expensive repairs. Unused fireplaces can become a habitat for birds and other animals. They can also be unsafe and release carbon monoxide into homes. A home inspector will check the condition of the chimney during their inspection, so you will be made aware of any issues before you buy the home.

Structural Issues

The foundation of a home is critical because unstable foundations can cause homes to get internal and external damage. These structural issues can occur when there is improper drainage on the outside of the home. Standing water can compromise the structural integrity of the house. Cracks are one consequence, and but other damage can also occur if the drainage issues are not addressed in a timely manner. The foundation is another area that a home inspector will look at carefully to make sure that you are fully informed.

A home inspector is a good resource to use to learn more about the benefits of getting a home inspection. They can also offer insight on other issues that could be hidden from untrained eyes. If any issues are discovered, you can use their professional, detailed report to determine whether you still want to purchase the home. These reports can also be used to negotiate the asking price for homes of interest. You can leverage the known repair issues and advise the seller that you will need to make the repairs.