Buying a home is a lengthy process, and most likely the biggest financial decision you will ever make.  A home inspection before you buy is to really know what you’re buying. Research your potential home like you would any other major purchase. The more you know, the fewer surprises there will be down the road.  It can be tempting to want to forego the home inspection, especially since it’s one more cost to handle.  But even if your prospective home looks immaculate, you should still get an inspection.  Doing so can potentially save you thousands of dollars.  Home inspections are not only for show stopper issues but they are also for future maintenance issues. The main purpose of a home inspection is to give you the information needed to make an informed decision on the purchase.  Most home inspectors focus on the major defects that will cost the buyer a lot of money above the purchase price to repair.  The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof; attic and visible insulations; walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors; the foundation, basement and what could be structural issues.  Even if your home inspection turns up clean, it is nice to have that peace of mind.  It is better to pay approximately $400-$700 for a report that you do not need, than to skip it and pay $7,000 for a new roof within a year of buying your new home.