Getting a house inspected doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing. You need to play an active role in the process.

As seen on Trulia.com  You can be confident that you’re buying a good, solid house … even if you’re not a structural engineer, plumber, roofer, or professional air quality evaluator.

How? You hire a home inspector, of course.

This is true for new-construction homes, historic treasures, or your standard 30-year-old find.

But wait — first learn about home inspection tips that could save you money and keep you from making missteps along the way.

“If it’s raining, the home inspector may avoid inspecting some exterior areas, such as the deck or crawl spaces,” says Massachusetts real estate attorney Rob Pellegrini.

1. Not getting multiple recommendations

Your real estate agent might suggest a home inspector, and that inspector could turn out to be wonderful. But you’re the one buying the house, so make sure you choose well. Besides asking your friends and neighbors, use the American Society of Home Inspectors to vet their recommendations and make sure you hire someone who’s qualified.

“Interview the inspector and find out about how they work, what their background and training are, whether they are licensed and insured, attend continuing education classes, and have a communication style that you are comfortable with,” says Welmoed Sisson, a Maryland home inspector.

2. Not attending the inspection

Because buyers get a report from the inspector after the job’s done, many people don’t realize they can be at the inspection. In fact, good inspectors expect you to be there. That way, they can show you what they find and let you know whether it’s a big deal or not.

Unfortunately, some inspectors might cut corners, which is another reason to be there. Don’t let some snow or construction debris prevent your inspector from checking a hard-to-get-to area.

“If it’s raining, the home inspector may avoid inspecting some exterior areas, such as the deck or crawl spaces,” says Massachusetts real estate attorney Rob Pellegrini.

If that happens, there’s a possibility a potential problem could be missed.

3. Being too intimidated to ask questions

Unless you’re a contractor, you probably don’t know much about the “guts” of the house: the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

So attend the inspection — and ask plenty of questions. “A good inspector will answer all of your questions thoroughly and will explain what he’s doing and looking at all along the way,” says Rob Williams, a Washington, DC, real estate agent.

If you don’t understand what the inspector just told you, ask for clarification. “Don’t let it slide because you’re too scared to ask,” says Williams.

– To see more of this article go to: http://www.trulia.com/blog/8-home-inspection-missteps-that-cost-buyers-money/