Your home inspection is a very important part of the home purchase process. This inspection is used to identify major problems with the property, if any, that require repair prior to the home purchase. This does not include cosmetic repairs. You will hire an insured inspector to identify these potential problems. The prices range from $250-$550 based on the size of the property.  Payment will be due upon completion of the inspection. When you receive the Inspection Report, you will request repairs if necessary. If you cannot negotiate your repair request with the seller you will be able to cancel the contract within the agreed upon time period included in the contract, (which is normally 17 days from acceptance of the offer). Please review the article on "A Buyer's Home Inspection Checklist"; then order an inspection from one of the many Inspectors I've worked with or has a high rating.