Home Inspections 

A home inspection is a visual examination of the condition of a residential property, usually conducted when the property is being bought or sold. It's typically performed by a licensed home inspector who evaluates the home's structure, systems, and components to identify any existing or potential problems.

Key Aspects of a Home Inspection:
Purpose:
- For buyers, it helps identify issues that could affect the property's value or safety before completing the purchase. 
- For sellers, it can highlight repairs needed to make the home more marketable or prevent surprises during negotiations.
What’s Inspected: 
- Structural components: Foundation, roof, walls, ceilings, floors, and attic. 
- Systems: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing. 
- Exterior: Siding, windows, doors, drainage, and grading.
- Interior: Walls, ceilings, flooring, stairways, and insulation. 
- Appliances: Often includes major built-in appliances like ovens or dishwashers.
What’s Not Typically Included: 
- Hidden defects (inside walls, behind furniture, etc.). 
- Specialized inspections (e.g., for mold, pests, radon, asbestos) unless requested separately. 
- Cosmetic defects. 
- Temporary structures that are not part of the home.
Outcome: 
- A home inspection report detailing findings, including any safety issues, or maintenance concerns. 
- The report can be used to negotiate repairs or pricing with the seller.
Limitations:
- It’s a visual inspection, not a guarantee or warranty.
- Inspectors don’t dismantle systems or test every component in detail.

Importance:
A home inspection provides peace of mind and can help avoid unexpected expenses after moving in. It’s a critical part of due diligence in a real estate transaction.