“What to Expect During Your First Home Inspection”

Susie Braskett
Oct 21
2 min read

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone — but before you finalize the purchase, there’s one important step that can save you from future headaches: the home inspection.

A home inspection gives you a professional, unbiased look at the property’s condition before you commit to buying. It’s your chance to uncover hidden issues, understand potential repair costs, and make sure you’re making a sound investment.

If you’ve never been through one before, here’s what to expect.

1. What a Home Inspection Is (and Isn’t)

A home inspection is a visual evaluation of the home’s structure and major systems by a licensed professional. It typically includes the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, windows, doors, and appliances.

However, it’s important to remember:

Inspectors don’t open walls or perform destructive testing.
They identify visible issues and signs of potential problems, not cosmetic flaws.

The goal isn’t to “pass” or “fail” a home — it’s to help you make an informed decision.

2. How to Prepare for the Inspection

Schedule it early. Inspections usually happen right after your offer is accepted.
Plan to attend. While not required, being there allows you to ask questions and get a firsthand look at any concerns.
Bring a notepad or phone. Take photos or notes for reference when reviewing the report later.

💡 Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the process — inspectors are there to educate, not just evaluate.

3. What Inspectors Typically Check

Most home inspections cover the following areas:

Roof & attic: Leaks, missing shingles, insulation, ventilation.
Foundation & structure: Cracks, uneven floors, drainage issues.
Electrical systems: Outlets, panels, and grounding.
Plumbing: Leaks, water pressure, and drainage.
HVAC systems: Functionality and overall condition.
Windows & doors: Proper seals, operation, and safety.

At the end, you’ll receive a detailed inspection report — often with photos and recommendations for repairs or further evaluations.

4. What Happens After the Inspection

Once you receive the report, you and your agent will review it together. Depending on what’s found, you can:

Request repairs or credits from the seller.
Renegotiate the purchase price.
Walk away if major issues make the home too risky.

Remember: even new or recently renovated homes can have problems. The key is knowing what they are before closing.

5. How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?

Home inspection fees vary by location and property size, but most range between ₱7,000–₱15,000 (or around $300–$600 in the U.S.). It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind on such a big investment.

Final Thoughts

Your first home inspection is an essential part of the buying process. It gives you clarity, confidence, and protection before making one of the largest purchases of your life.

Don’t rush through it — take the time to understand the results and lean on your real estate agent for guidance. With the right information, you can move forward knowing your new home is a safe, solid investment.