Home Inspection

The First-Time Home Buyer’s Guide to Home Inspections


Buying a home is a daunting task, especially for first-time home buyers. As Northern California’s fastest growing inspection company, we at CalPro Inspection Group receive a lot of questions about home inspections. If you’re a first time home buyer, check out our FAQ page and continue reading to learn all about the home inspection process.

Why Get a Home Inspection?

Purchasing a home is one of the largest investments you will ever make. Therefore, to make a wise investment, you need to know as much about the property's condition and repair needs as possible. A home inspection provides valuable information about the structure and safety of the home, as well as potential repair costs and ongoing maintenance needs.

When to Schedule an Inspection?

The best time to schedule an inspection is directly after making an offer on a property. At this time, be certain to include a home inspection contingency in your sales contract. This clause makes the purchase of the home contingent upon the findings of the inspection. If the inspection turns up more problems than you were anticipating, we suggest using the report to negotiate the cost of repairs with the seller. 

How to Choose a Trustworthy Inspector?

California does not require inspectors to be licensed or certified. This means there are plenty of inspectors out there without the proper training or experience. At CalPro, however, we do business differently; all of our inspectors are highly trained, go through a rigorous examination process, insured, and certified by InterNachi-association with the highest standards in the industry. We are so confident in our work that we provide a comprehensive 90-day warranty to all of our customers. 

When Will I Receive My Inspection Report?

Most home inspections take several hours to complete. However, larger homes take longer to evaluate. At the culmination of the inspection, the inspector will create a neat, organized inspection report complete with photos, detailed notes, and a summary page. You will receive this report by the end of the next business day; we highly recommend reviewing the report on-site with the inspector. 

Schedule an Inspection

In addition to home inspections, CalPro also offers commercial, termitesewer camerasolarpool and spaHVACwell and septicmold, and thermal imaging inspections. We truly are a one-stop shop for all of your inspection needs throughout Sacramento, San Jose, and the Bay Area. Schedule an inspection online or contact CalPro at (800) 474-3540 for more information.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a home inspection important for first-time buyers?
A home inspection helps you understand the property’s condition, including safety concerns and potential repair costs, so you can make a confident and informed purchase.
When should I schedule a home inspection?
You should schedule the inspection right after your offer is accepted, during the contingency period, so you have time to review findings and make decisions.
How long does a home inspection usually take?
Most home inspections take a few hours, but the exact time depends on the size, age, and condition of the property.
Can a home inspection help with negotiations?
Yes, the inspection report can be used to request repairs, ask for credits, or renegotiate the purchase price if issues are found.
What does a home inspection typically include?
A home inspection covers major components such as the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and overall structure to identify any existing or potential issues.
CalPro Inspection Group

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