By: Doug Bonderud, Angie's List contributor
What is a home inspection and is it worth it? Buying a home can be a stressful process, made all the more so by potential issues lurking behind the walls, in the ceiling, or inside the HVAC system. To help avoid bad deals and unforseen repair costs, real estate agents and home manufacturing companies often recommend a home inspection by a qualified inspector before you sign on the dotted line.But many homebuyers wonder if the cost of home inspection is worth it. Here is a breakdown of what a home inspection does and how much you should expect to pay for a qualified home inspector.
Cost of a home inspection Just as the regulation of home inspection companies differs by state, home inspection costs are also unfixed and can vary. For instance, an Austin, Texas, state inspection cost averages $452, while a home inspection in New York City averages $1,025, according to recent Angie's List member reviews. Nationwide, members report spending an average of $473.
There are several basic guidelines to help determine the cost of a home inspection. First is the size of your home; the larger the square footage, they more you'll pay. In addition, if you have special requests - for example, you have concerns about asbestos - you'll likely need a specialized professional and will have to pay more as a result. Expect to pay at least $400 for a home inspection from a reputable company on an average 2,000 square-foot home. However be aware that price can easily push to $500 or $600+ if you have a large home or need additional inspections, such as radon or termite, which aren't typically included in a general inspection.