The answer is yes to all buyers. I have included this in the articles for sellers also for good reason. I am a true believer unless you are a experienced home inspector or a general contractor licensed in electrical, heating, air and plumbing you need someone familiar with all of these systems to look at your home you are getting ready to buy. You never want to buy something with out all of the information. Buyer beware or Caveat emptor allot of us have heard this term in cars and Real Estate and it still rings true. The problem could be something that the seller had no idea about, something they were not trying to hide.

The purchase of a home, be it for personal use or investment, is a major purchase and expense so it is best to take all the precautions you can. When you first get ready to buy go ahead and start interviewing home inspectors. They will be an important part of your team. Research the area for them, talk to your agent, ask friends that have just made a home purchase and then interview them in person. Find out their qualifications and experience, get references of past clients. Check and make sure they are licensed. Never use someone who is not licensed. Make sure you understand their policies and limitations don’t just go for the cheapest - make sure you feel comfortable with them.

I would like to point out now that the sellers will not repair all the items found on a home inspection report, but any operating system and safety problems should be taken care of. Make sure you understand the paragraphs that cover home inspections in your offer to purchase. The 2-4 hundred dollars you spend now could save you 2-4 thousand and up down the road. Most foreclosure, bank and VA owned homes are bought as-is where is (make sure you understand all the forms you sign) I still recommend doing a home inspection to get an accurate picture of the condition.

Why would I recommend a seller do a Home Inspection? So they are aware of any operational or safety issues. A lot of items I have seen are loose screws or items easily repaired by the seller. When I am the seller I want to know if there is anything that needs to be taken care of.