How often are home inspections typically recommended during the buying process?

Home inspections are typically recommended as part of the due diligence process before finalizing a purchase agreement. This practice is crucial because it allows potential homebuyers to identify any underlying issues with the property before committing to the purchase. Conducting an inspection during this phase helps ensure that buyers are fully informed about the condition of the home, including any repairs or maintenance that may be needed, which can influence their decision or negotiation strategies.

As part of the buying process, an inspection provides a safety net for the buyer, offering an opportunity to address concerns, negotiate repairs or price adjustments, or even walk away from the deal if significant issues arise. This proactive approach is considered standard practice in real estate transactions.

The other options do not align with industry standards or best practices for home inspections. Conducting inspections only after the purchase is complete increases the risk for buyers, as they would then be responsible for any undiscovered problems. Scheduling a home inspection every five years does not reflect the common practice for individual transactions, as inspections are generally tied to the specific purchase event. Only inspecting when a buyer has concerns is reactive and may lead to missed opportunities to detect issues earlier in the process that could affect property value or safety.