When you're buying a home in the Hudson Valley, it's easy to fall in love with stunning curb appeal or an updated kitchen — but what you truly want to know is what’s happening behind the walls. A home inspection gives you that insight before you commit to one of the biggest purchases of your life.
You might be wondering whether an inspection is really worth the time and money. Absolutely. A home inspection can reveal hidden problems that could cost you thousands if ignored. Think roof issues, plumbing surprises, or outdated wiring. Knowing this upfront gives you options — you can negotiate, ask for repairs, or walk away.
What Does a Home Inspector Evaluate?
Your home inspector will follow a detailed checklist for evaluating various features, systems, and components of the house. This usually includes the roof, HVAC system, plumbing, electrical, foundation, and exterior. Windows, doors, appliances, water pressure, and drainage are also reviewed. The goal? To identify material defects — basically anything that could affect the value, safety, or livability of the home.
It’s not just about what looks good. It’s about how everything functions together.
It’s not just about what looks good. It’s about how everything functions together.
What’s Not Covered
This part surprises a lot of buyers. A general inspection doesn’t cover absolutely everything.
For example, your inspector probably won’t look at swimming pools, wells, or mold. They won’t test for asbestos, radon, or lead paint unless you specifically request it. If you're buying an older home or one with special features, you’ll want to ask about specialized inspections to cover these areas.
For example, your inspector probably won’t look at swimming pools, wells, or mold. They won’t test for asbestos, radon, or lead paint unless you specifically request it. If you're buying an older home or one with special features, you’ll want to ask about specialized inspections to cover these areas.
When You Should Schedule the Inspection
Timing is everything when you're under contract. After your offer is accepted, you typically have a limited “inspection period” to complete your due diligence.
You should book your home inspection as soon as possible — usually within the first few days. The faster you receive the report, the more time you have to review it, ask questions, and make crucial decisions. Delaying the inspection could mean missing your chance to negotiate repairs. Your real estate agent can help you stay on track with this timeline and make sure you don’t miss critical deadlines.
You should book your home inspection as soon as possible — usually within the first few days. The faster you receive the report, the more time you have to review it, ask questions, and make crucial decisions. Delaying the inspection could mean missing your chance to negotiate repairs. Your real estate agent can help you stay on track with this timeline and make sure you don’t miss critical deadlines.
Can You Attend the Inspection as the Buyer?
Yes, and you absolutely should. Being present gives you the chance to see any concerns firsthand. You can walk around the home with the inspector, ask questions in real-time, and gain a better understanding of any issues they find. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about the home’s maintenance needs, like how to shut off the water or where the circuit breakers are.
Some buyers wait for the full report to review things — but seeing the inspection as it happens gives you much better context.
Some buyers wait for the full report to review things — but seeing the inspection as it happens gives you much better context.
How to Choose a Qualified Home Inspector
Not all inspectors bring the same level of experience or attention to detail. So, how do you choose someone you can trust? Ask for recommendations from your real estate agent, but also do your own research. Look for inspectors with certifications from reputable organizations like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) or InterNACHI. Check online reviews, and don’t hesitate to ask for a sample report to see how thorough they are.
A thorough inspector won’t just rush through the home. They’ll take their time, explain the findings clearly, and be available afterward if you have any questions.
A thorough inspector won’t just rush through the home. They’ll take their time, explain the findings clearly, and be available afterward if you have any questions.
Understanding the Home Inspection Report
Once the inspection is complete, you’ll get a detailed report to review, usually within 24 to 48 hours. At first glance, the report might look overwhelming. It can be dozens of pages long and filled with notes, photos, and technical terms. Don’t panic; this is normal. Most homes, even well-maintained ones, will have at least a few items listed of note.
What you want to focus on are the big-ticket items: foundation cracks, roof damage, HVAC issues, plumbing leaks, or signs of water damage. Your real estate agent can help you sort through what’s minor and what’s worth addressing before closing.
If the inspector uncovers serious problems, you have a few options. You can ask the seller to make certain repairs before closing, request a credit to cover the cost, or negotiate a lower sale price. If the issues are too significant and can't be resolved, you may decide to walk away.
This is where your real estate agent steps in with expert insight. They’ll guide the negotiation process, help you understand your goals, and keep everything moving forward.
What you want to focus on are the big-ticket items: foundation cracks, roof damage, HVAC issues, plumbing leaks, or signs of water damage. Your real estate agent can help you sort through what’s minor and what’s worth addressing before closing.
If the inspector uncovers serious problems, you have a few options. You can ask the seller to make certain repairs before closing, request a credit to cover the cost, or negotiate a lower sale price. If the issues are too significant and can't be resolved, you may decide to walk away.
This is where your real estate agent steps in with expert insight. They’ll guide the negotiation process, help you understand your goals, and keep everything moving forward.
In the end, a home inspection isn’t just a box to check. It’s your moment to hit pause and really understand what you’re getting into. It protects your wallet, gives you negotiation power, and helps you buy with confidence.
Even if you fall in love with the house, the inspection keeps you grounded in reality. You’ll thank yourself later for not rushing through this step. The more informed you are, the better choices you’ll make — from offer to closing and beyond.
For expert guidance through the inspection phase and beyond, find the right home in the Hudson Valley with TKG Real Estate by your side.
