First-Time Homebuyers: What to Expect During Your First Inspection

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to the home inspection. At Behind The Scenes Home Inspections, we know how many questions first-time buyers have. What really happens during an inspection? What should you look out for? And what do you do with the report once you have it? Let’s walk through the process, so you can approach your inspection with confidence and clarity.

Booking Your Home Inspection: Setting the Foundation

Once your offer is accepted and you’re officially under contract, booking your home inspection is one of the first major steps. Most buyers have a short window—typically 7-10 days—to get this done. It’s important to choose a licensed, reputable inspector who understands your local market. You can book your inspection directly through Behind The Scenes Home Inspections, where we make scheduling straightforward and flexible for your busy timeline.

A good inspector will explain what’s included, answer your questions up front, and ensure you know what to expect. Remember, the goal is to give you a clear picture of the home’s current condition—not to “pass” or “fail” the property, but to help you make an informed decision.

The Inspection Day: What Happens Behind the Scenes

On inspection day, it’s best if you can attend in person. This gives you the chance to see issues firsthand and ask questions as they come up. A typical inspection for a single-family home takes about 2-4 hours, depending on size and condition.

Your inspector will walk through the exterior and interior, checking the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, windows, doors, attic, and more. Modern inspections use advanced tools such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, and drones to get a thorough look at every corner. The inspector will take notes and photos, but they’ll also explain key findings to you in real time.

Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to speak up! Ask what certain terms mean or why something matters. Being present and engaged is one of the best ways to learn about your future home.

Common Findings: What’s “Normal” and What’s Not

Nearly every home—even new builds—comes with a list of findings. The most common issues include roofing wear, plumbing leaks, electrical panel concerns, and HVAC maintenance needs. Sometimes, buyers worry when they see a long report, but most items are minor or routine.

Some typical findings you might see:

• Minor roof shingle damage or missing flashing

• GFCI outlets needed in kitchens or bathrooms (for safety)

• Signs of previous leaks under sinks, now dry

• Small cracks in foundation or walls due to settling

These issues don’t necessarily mean the home is in bad shape. Instead, they’re opportunities to plan for repairs or negotiate with the seller. For perspective, 86% of buyers who used a home inspection discovered at least one issue that needed attention, and some were able to negotiate repairs or a price reduction as a result.

Understanding Your Home Inspection Report

Within 24-48 hours, your inspector will provide a detailed report—often with color photos, diagrams, and clear explanations. At Behind The Scenes Home Inspections, our reports are designed to be easy to understand, breaking down the findings by severity and urgency.

What should you do with this report? Use it as a tool for further negotiations, planning, and peace of mind. Review each section carefully. If there’s something you don’t understand, reach out to your inspector—you’re never alone in this process.

A note from our team: Don’t panic if the report looks long. It’s normal! We’d rather document everything so you’re not surprised down the road.

Local Insights: Rookie Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

We’ve seen many first-time buyers make the same few mistakes, and we want you to avoid them:

• Focusing only on cosmetic issues: Fresh paint is nice, but pay attention to the big-ticket systems—roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. These have the biggest impact on your wallet and your safety.

• Skipping the inspection to save money: In a competitive market, some buyers are tempted to waive the inspection. We strongly advise against this. Unexpected home repairs are a leading cause of buyer regret.

• Not attending the inspection: Seeing issues in person helps you remember details and ask questions. Even if you can’t attend, request a call with your inspector afterward.

How to Approach Your Inspection With Confidence

The home inspection is your chance to learn about the home—not just its flaws, but its strengths too. Go in with an open mind and use the opportunity to understand how your future home works. Here’s how to make the most of the experience:

• Prepare a list of questions or concerns in advance. The more specific, the better.

• Ask your inspector about regular maintenance tips for the home’s systems.

• Take notes or photos of anything you want to remember or research later.

• Remember that every home has quirks; what matters is being informed.

Next Steps After the Inspection

Once you have your report, talk with your real estate agent about any red flags or potential negotiation points. You may decide to request repairs, ask for credits, or simply plan your own fixes after closing. Your inspector can also recommend trusted local specialists if deeper evaluation is needed.

Buying your first home is a journey, and your inspection is a key stop along the road. At Behind The Scenes Home Inspections, we’re committed to making sure you have the knowledge and support you need to move forward with confidence. Ready to book your inspection? Contact us today and let’s get started on this next chapter together.