What should be the focus of a home inspection?

The focus of a home inspection should prioritize the actions that the client must take. This involves identifying significant issues that may require repairs, maintenance, or further evaluation, and clearly communicating these findings to the client. The ultimate goal of a home inspection is to help clients understand the condition of the property so they can make informed decisions regarding their purchase or investment. This means not only noting problems but also guiding clients on the necessary steps to address those issues, whether it's hiring a specialist for further inspection, budgeting for repairs, or negotiating with the seller.

Other approaches, such as providing detailed descriptions of every noticeable issue or having the client accompany the inspector, may offer some value, but they do not encapsulate the primary goal of the inspection. Speeding through the inspection process is counterproductive, as it can lead to missed defects and an overall lack of thoroughness, which compromises the integrity of the evaluation. A successful home inspection should strike a balance between thoroughness and clarity, emphasizing actionable insights for the client.