What’s the Difference Between an Appraisal and an Inspection?

What’s the Difference Between an Appraisal and an Inspection?
By City Home Inspectors

🧠 You’ve probably heard the terms “appraisal” and “inspection” tossed around during the homebuying process. But are they the same thing?

Short answer: No.
They serve very different (but equally essential) purposes—and as a buyer, you need both to protect your investment.

🔍 Home Inspection: Condition Check-Up

A home inspection is a deep dive into the physical condition of the home. Conducted by a licensed inspector, it identifies:

• Structural concerns (e.g., cracks, rot, roof damage)

• System issues (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)

• Safety hazards or maintenance needs

• Photos, summaries, and repair recommendations

Who it protects: The buyer.
The report helps you decide whether to move forward, renegotiate, or request repairs.

💰 Appraisal: Market Value Verification

An appraisal, on the other hand, is required by your lender to confirm that the home is worth the sale price.

It includes:

• A review of comparable sales in the area

• Square footage and property features

• Local market trends and neighborhood factors

• A final appraised value

Who it protects: The lender.
If the home appraises lower than your offer, your financing could be affected.

✅ Why Buyers Need Both

• The inspection protects your health, wallet, and peace of mind

• The appraisal protects your loan and investment value

Together, they give you the full picture—and the confidence to move forward smartly.

🧭 Don’t skip the inspection. It reveals what photos and price tags can’t.

📅 Book your home inspection today at www.cityhomeinspectors.com