Hiring a professional home inspector is beneficial to the buyer and the seller in many ways.  First, the seller who is concerned with proper disclosure can become aware of problems and correct them beforehand.  Buyers will get a good understanding of the homes condition and avoid costly repairs in the future.  Secondly, a home inspector can expose hidden health and safety issues within a home.  The home inspector should be an unbiased third party who does not offer repair services.  He or she will strictly provide a report as to the condition of  specified items in the home (usually the foundation, roof, A/C, appliances and general condition of the structure). 

Inspection Report 

The inspection report defines the condition of the home, and then it is up to the buyer to decide if it is acceptable or if renegotiation is in order.  The seller is not required by law to make corrections.  A sales contract may stipulate a certain percentage of the sales price that the seller is responsible for. 

Termite Inspection 

Termite inspections are performed by pest control companies and are usually required for a mortgage.  Sometimes if a termite warranty is in place an inspection may not be required. 

More Home Inspection Resources 

Check Your Home Inspector Checklist –
http://www.insight-inspection.com

How to Read an Inspection Report -
http://realtytimes.com

Checking it Out – What should I know about a home before I buy it?
http://www.inman.com

Home Inspection Not Just for Buyers –
http://realtytimes.com

Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspections –
http://www.ashi.org/customers/faq.asp