The home inspection is usually paid for by the buyer.
(Updated April 2025)
However, this is negotiable and there are some cases where the seller might pay for it. This depends on the agreement that was made between the two parties involved in the sale. If you’re not sure who should be paying for it, your real estate agent will be able to advise you.
The USDA follows suit, and it says the cost of a home inspection is typically the responsibility of the buyer, but it can also be paid by the seller if agreed upon and clearly stated in the purchase agreement. This ensures transparency and allows the buyer to access the inspection report for financing purposes.
The Home Inspection Fee
When deciding who pays for a home inspection, several factors can come into play, including the market conditions and the specifics of the purchase agreement. While the buyer typically pays for the home inspection, there are scenarios where the seller pays, especially in a buyer’s market or when proactive sellers arrange for a pre-listing inspection to attract potential buyers. A standard inspection often includes assessments of critical components like cooling systems, septic systems, and mechanical systems, but buyers may choose to conduct specialized inspections, such as pest inspections or radon gas testing, depending on specific concerns.
The inspection findings can influence repair costs, price reduction negotiations, or even determine whether the deal proceeds. Both parties benefit from the transparency provided by the inspection report, ensuring the property is a sound investment. It’s important that buyers work with a qualified inspector to conduct their own inspections and thoroughly evaluate major issues or necessary repairs identified during the process. Whether a seller chooses to address certain repairs or the buyer orders additional evaluations, understanding responsibilities through the contract supports a smoother real estate transaction.
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Typical Costs of a Home Inspection
A general home inspection is a critical part of real estate transactions, serving as a tool to assess the condition of a property before closing the deal. The cost of a home inspection can vary, but buyers typically pay for this service, which ranges between $300 to $500 on average, depending on factors like the square footage, market conditions, and regional pricing.
Occasionally, a pre-listing inspection may be completed by proactive sellers looking to address necessary repairs early, potentially leading to a smoother sale and avoiding major issues that could derail a purchase offer.
A standard inspection covers structural components, cooling systems, mechanical systems, and often includes checking for radon gas or other specialized risks. Add-ons like pest inspections or septic system evaluations may carry additional costs. If the inspection findings reveal issues, repair costs become a point of negotiation between buyers and sellers, with sellers sometimes offering a price reduction or covering certain repairs as part of the contract.
A qualified inspector ensures thorough reporting, and inspecting multiple factors helps both parties feel confident they are making a sound investment. If the seller pays or the buyer remains responsible, then addressing the results of the inspection ensures the property is ready for the next chapter.
Find out what needs to be fixed before you put your house on the market
When you’re selling a house, many things go into the home buying process. One of those is the home inspection. The home inspection is an important part of the selling process. This is your chance to find out what needs to be fixed before you put your house on the market. The buyer will likely want to have an inspection done as well, so everything must be in good condition. If any major repairs need to be made, you will need to take care of them before selling.
Get a comprehensive report of all potential problems and things that need attention
A home inspector will go through your house and check for any potential problems. They will also look at things that need attention. You will receive a report of all the findings. This is important because it will help you determine what needs to be fixed before selling. It’s also helpful in negotiating the final sale price, and knowing what the seller to pay so everyone knows their costs. Also know your closing costs.
Home inspection costs vary depending on the size and location of the property
The cost of a home inspection varies depending on the size and location of the property. Typically, it costs between $200 and $500. However, if the inspector finds any major repairs need to be made, the cost will be higher. It’s important to get a few quotes from different home inspectors before making a decision.
Don’t neglect the importance of the home inspection
The home inspection is an important part of the selling process. Don’t neglect it or try to cut corners. The buyer’s agent should help advice the buyer. This is your chance to find out what needs to be fixed before you put your house on the market. It’s also helpful in negotiating the final sale price. Make sure you are prepared for what the inspector might find. Have a list of repairs that need to be made and get estimates for how much they will cost. This way, you can be prepared to negotiate with the buyer.
We hope that this blog post has helped answer your question! Typically the home buyer pays for the inspection.
If you have any other questions about selling a house, our team would be more than happy to help. If you need a buying a home help, advice, or anything real estate related, contact us today to get started.
Check Back for Updates
Be sure to check back for updates on home inspection topics, including details on the home inspection report, inspection contingency, buyer’s inspection process, and how much a home inspection may cost, as well as guidance for home inspection buyers on experiencing inspection results, addressing needed repairs, understanding seller’s responsibility, and evaluating the home appraisal to ensure your home purchase is a good feeling backed by a clear purchase offer and earnest money, along with tips on square footage, repairs based findings, and when to recommend specialized inspections, such as a rental property inspection, or consult a general home inspector when inspecting the buyer’s future property.
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