In recent weeks, we’ve corrected two misconceptions for people who have called our office. They said they were told these “facts” by real estate professionals, friends or family members.

The first misconception is, “You really don’t need a home inspection if you have your home appraised.”

The fact is a home appraisal and a home inspection are two entirely different inspections.  The appraisal is designed to protect the lending institution by ensuring that the home’s value is equal to or greater than the amount being loaned.  Simply put, the appraisal is kind of like an in-person “Kelly Blue Book” (book used to determine the value of cars) valuation of a home.

Conversely, the home inspection is a thorough inspection of the systems and construction of a home.  In short, a home inspection is kind of like taking a car you’re thinking about buying to your trusted mechanic.  Your mechanic will check the brakes, ensure that the transmission is operating properly, check the engine and exhaust system. Your trusted mechanic may even drive the car to ensure it doesn’t shake or pull to one side. This inspection by your trusted mechanic — just like a home inspection — is performed to protect you.

While few would pay a mechanic to look over a used car that costs $500, a home is typically your biggest investment.  If you’re investing $75,000, $100,000, $200,000 or more in a home, you need and will want a thorough home inspection!

The second misconception is that “A home inspection will take too much time.”

If you call Housebusters at 800-847-3500 or book online, we will likely complete your inspection within 48 hours.  We’re that fast.  Typically, after we complete your inspection, we will have your completed report back to you within 48 hours.  In most cases we will have the report to you the very next day.  What this means is that if you call Housebusters on a Monday to schedule a home inspection, a mold test, a well water test AND a pest inspection (yes, we can perform all of your inspections for you!), you will typically have all of your reports by Friday.  Now that’s service!

As one can easily see, yes, you need a home inspection! And no, it won’t take a lot of time to have your home inspection and all other inspection services completed!