Since a house is probably the most expensive investment which most people will ever buy and have to keep in good repair, it is false economy to buy one in an 'as is' condition ? however much of a bargain it appears to be.

You could, of course, do the inspection yourself, but your report would have little credibility with the seller. But for the sake of a $2/300 home inspection, you could have a professional home inspector give you a thorough report to help you assess repairs needed in your new home. The inspector is a generalist in all the systems and construction of the house, and needs to have broad inspection experience in several construction areas. The seller normally responds to an authoritative statement of repairs by giving the buyer a reduction in the price, having the repairs completed or simply giving a cash settlement. In fact, rarely will a report fail to show repairs less than the cost of the inspection, and so in theory, the service should cost the buyer nothing.

Not only should the inspector itemize present and perhaps even future potential problems, but he should also be knowledgeable enough to give maintenance tips that could prove invaluable. Some inspectors, for example, give their clients leaflets or even an entire book to help them understand and protect their investment. The inspector should also be able to estimate the life expectancy of major items like the roof, appliances, and heating and cooling units. This helps you budget for the first few years of ownership.

Never use an inspector who would undertake the repairs he finds ?this is a direct conflict of interests. However, most inspectors will give you probable repair costs for the problems they find. But remember that the costs can only be a rough guide because the standard of the repairs and the extent of them are often unknown at the time of the inspection.

Choose an inspector who will welcome your attendance at the inspection ? you will get much more for your money. Some inspectors will offer additional services such as radon and asbestos testing at an increased price. If the seller says he will do the repairs himself, your inspector will almost certainly be willing, for a small fee, to re-inspect the work and validate it. Some inspectors sell new-buyer warranties. These might be good value but you should read the small print very carefully.

All in all, one of your best advisors in the house purchase is the home inspector.  He is well worth the money you spend, so rely upon his expertise. Happy buying!