Make the most of a home inspection

January 20, 1999

With US interest rates the lowest they've been in years, Americans are flocking to buy new homes. The following tips can help in choosing a home inspector:

Schedule in advance. Start screening inspectors when you begin seriously shopping for a house. Allow enough time - most inspections average two to four hours to complete.

Attend the inspection. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the house and its various systems.

Save the report. Refer to it annually to plan for home repairs.

Source: American Society of Home Inspectors