Everything you need to know about getting a home inspection

Once you've entered into a contract to buy a new home, you definitely want to hire a home inspector. Consider all the things that can cause damage to a home: weather, building materials, wear and tear from previous tenants, pests, time, etc. - and most of it isn't visible to the untrained eye. You wouldn't buy a used car without popping the hood, so why take the gamble with an investment that can be between 20 and 100 times the price?

Real estate brokerage Redfin has offered special insight into home inspection, listing the top five commonly asked questions and answers.

What can a home inspector do for me? Save you a ton of money on the sale.

A typical home inspection takes less time than waiting for the cable guy and costs less than the installation. A visual inspection of the structure and components of a home takes about two to three hours (less for a condo). The inspector will record any issues he finds in a written report, including a checklist and photos, to give you an idea of what kind of repairs you might be looking at.

Depending on the square footage of the home, an inspection costs roughly between $300 and $500. After an inspection, armed with a detailed understanding of the expected repairs, you can further negotiate with the seller, and the inspection report serves as evidence in protecting yourself if you use the 'inspection contingency' (if you want to back out and reclaim the money you just put down).

In other words: It can save you thousands of dollars, and give you a peace of mind.

What does a home inspector look for? Lots.

The inspector examines the interior and exterior of the home, and checks the condition of the plumbing, electrical, heating and ventilation, structural and finished elements throughout. Inspectors often use tools such as thermal imaging and water sensing instruments that can tell if there is a problem with heat or moisture near the surface of a wall or floor.

Most inspectors will also test any appliances included in the sale, like washers and dishwashers to make sure they are in good working order (and don't leak).

What makes a good home inspector? A local one, with knowledge of your home's area.

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Everything you need to know about getting a home inspection