How many big ticket items would you buy without looking at them first? You wouldn’t buy a car without asking an expert to check under the hood and kick the tires first, would you? The same should go for your biggest ticket item of all, your home.

Ask your real estate professional to help you find a reputable home inspector near you. He or she can find an inspector who will do a thorough job checking out the house you’re considering. Ask your prospective inspector some questions before you hire her or him.

You’ll want to know how long the inspector has been doing the job, and if and when he or she licensed. Also ask the inspector if she or he is registered at the local Better Business Bureau. If possible, ask for references and talk with some former clients who’ve had their home checked out by the inspector.