Recently, in Manitoba homebuyer had the worst-case scenario after skipping a home inspection.

She was planning major renovations, so she brought in all manner of construction trades people and general contractors to give estimates and make plans, but she never spent the little extra it would cost for an inspector because it seemed like a redundant move.

But it wouldn’t have been. In the end, her $1-million home is infested, wall-after-wall filled with one of the worst mice infestations those involved have ever seen. What was going to be just upgrades will result in the entire home being redone from insulation on out.

It’s a common mistake to assume general tradespeople can do the same manner of inspection that a certified home inspector would undertake.

The truth is, a certified home inspector knows how to spot signs of damage -- from electrical issues to water damage, repairs that might be a couple years off, to structural damage indicated by foundation condition, and more.

They can estimate the life of your driveway and more, in many ways giving you a solid picture of what you can expect in the next few years.

Not all home inspectors are actually certified, so it pays to do your homework and get one who is, or talk to someone like Alex, who’ll make sure you hire someone with a great reputation.

After all, the last thing Alex or any other trusted Realtor wants to see is for a client like you to run into a nightmare story of mold, dry-rot, infestations, or any other issues that can be lurking behind the otherwise-pretty surface of what you think is going to be your “dream home.”

With all you’re investing in your future, don’t cut corners now and forget the home inspection. As a buyer AND a seller, it’s in your legal interest to do your property transactions with full transparency, including a thorough inspection.