5 Things a Home Inspector Wishes You Knew Before Your Inspection

Christina and Drew Faulkenburg • October 13, 2025

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make!

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make — and your home inspection is one of the most important steps in protecting that investment.
At
Kick A-Z Home Inspections, we believe inspections shouldn’t feel intimidating. They should give you confidence, clarity, and peace of mind before you sign on the dotted line.


Here are five things every buyer should know before inspection day:

1. You don’t need to be nervous — inspections are about clarity, not perfection.

We know how it feels to wait for your inspection report — that mix of excitement and worry about what might show up. But remember: no home is perfect.
The goal isn’t to find a “perfect” house — it’s to help you
understand your house. Every finding gives you insight into what’s working well, what needs attention, and what might need maintenance down the road.

When you approach your inspection as an educational opportunity instead of a test, it becomes a powerful part of your home-buying process.


2. Every home (even new builds!) has issues — the difference is knowing which ones matter.

We inspect hundreds of homes a year across Northern Colorado, and one thing is always true: every home has something.
Sometimes it’s small — a missing cover plate, a loose faucet, a disconnected downspout. Other times it’s a safety or structural concern that needs attention before closing.

Even new construction homes can have hidden problems behind the walls — from missing insulation to plumbing leaks or grading issues. Our job is to help you prioritize what matters most so you can move forward with confidence.


3. Plan to be present — this is your chance to learn your home inside and out.

If your schedule allows, plan to attend your inspection (or at least the walkthrough at the end). You’ll get to see your inspector in action and ask questions in real time.

We’ll point out where your water shut-off valve is, how to test your GFCI outlets, and what routine maintenance will help you protect your home for years to come.
Think of it as a
hands-on homeowner’s orientation — and it’s included in your inspection.


4. Budget for the full picture — inspection, sewer scope, and radon test.

Your home is a big investment, and a thorough inspection helps protect it from costly surprises later.
💰 We recommend buyers
budget around $1,000 total for a complete inspection, including:

  • Full Home Inspection – covers structure, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more
  • Sewer Scope – identifies blockages or breaks before they become expensive repairs
  • Radon Test – checks for this invisible gas that can pose serious health risks

It’s a small upfront cost that can save you thousands down the line — and give you peace of mind before closing.


5. Your inspector is your ally, not your adversary.

We’re not here to “fail” your home — we’re here to help you make an informed decision.
At
Kick A-Z Home Inspections, we take pride in explaining our findings clearly, answering your questions, and delivering same-day reports you can actually understand.

Buying a home can be stressful, but this part doesn’t have to be.
We’ve got your back from the first call to the final report — because your peace of mind is our priority.


Ready to schedule your inspection?

We make it easy.
📲
Schedule online anytime at kickazhomeinspections.com
or text
Christina at 303-912-5848 to reserve your inspection date.


Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned homeowner, we’ll help you move forward with confidence — from Kick A to Z.

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Are you thinking about taking the plunge into homeownership? Becoming a homebuyer is an exciting step in life, but it's crucial to make an informed decision before leaping in. With so many factors to consider, it's important to stay organized and focused. In this article, we will explore the top 10 factors you should consider before becoming a homebuyer. From financial readiness and budgeting to location and property type, each factor plays a vital role in the home buying process. By understanding these factors and evaluating their significance in your situation, you can make a confident and educated decision. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade to a new property, this article will provide you with valuable insights that can help you navigate the often complex world of real estate. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge you need to make a smart and successful home buying decision. Let's get started! 1. Financial Readiness Before you even start looking at homes, it's essential to assess your financial situation. This includes understanding your credit score, calculating how much you can afford for a down payment, and determining your debt-to-income ratio. These factors will influence your mortgage eligibility and the interest rate you can secure. Ensuring you're financially ready will help you avoid overextending yourself and ensure you're comfortable with your monthly payments. 2. Budgeting Creating a realistic budget is key to homebuying success. Beyond the purchase price, consider ongoing costs like property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance, and utilities. Factor in unexpected expenses, such as emergency repairs or homeowners association (HOA) fees. A comprehensive budget will help you determine what you can truly afford, keeping you financially secure in the long term. 3. Location, Location, Location The location of your home can greatly impact your quality of life and long-term investment. Consider factors like proximity to work, schools, public transportation, and amenities. Research the neighborhood's safety, future development plans, and overall market trends. A great location can increase the value of your home over time, making it a smart investment. 4. Property Type Different types of properties offer unique benefits and challenges. Single-family homes provide more privacy and space, while condos or townhomes might offer lower maintenance responsibilities. Consider your lifestyle, family needs, and future plans when deciding on the type of property that best suits you. 5. Home Inspection A home inspection is a critical step in the buying process that should never be skipped. A thorough inspection can reveal potential issues like structural damage, faulty wiring, or plumbing problems. Understanding the condition of the property allows you to negotiate repairs or adjust your offer accordingly. At Kick A-Z Home Inspections, we help buyers make informed decisions by providing detailed, accurate reports. 6. Future Resale Value While you may plan to live in your new home for many years, it’s wise to consider its future resale value. Factors such as location, property condition, and market trends will influence how much your home will appreciate over time. Homes in desirable areas with strong school districts and amenities tend to hold their value better. 7. Market Conditions Understanding the current real estate market is crucial. In a seller’s market, you may face bidding wars and higher prices, while a buyer’s market could offer more negotiating power. Keep an eye on interest rates, housing supply, and economic factors that could impact your buying decision. 8. Long-Term Plans Consider how long you plan to stay in the home and how your needs might change over time. Are you planning to start a family? Will you need more space as your children grow? Thinking ahead will help ensure that your home meets your needs now and in the future. 9. Homeowners Insurance Homeowners insurance is an essential part of protecting your investment. Research different policies to find coverage that suits your needs, including protection against natural disasters, theft, and liability. Some homes, especially those in high-risk areas, may require additional coverage, which could impact your budget. 10. Maintenance and Upkeep Owning a home comes with ongoing maintenance responsibilities. From regular upkeep like lawn care and gutter cleaning to unexpected repairs, being prepared for these costs is essential. Consider the age and condition of the home’s major systems, like the roof, HVAC, and plumbing, as these can be significant expenses down the road.  Homeownership is a major milestone, but it requires careful consideration and planning. 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