Home Inspection vs Appraisal: What's the Difference and Why It Matters

If you’re buying or selling a home, you’ll likely hear about both an inspection and an appraisal — but they’re not the same.

Here’s the difference:

🔍 Home Inspection

• Ordered by the buyer

• Evaluates condition (roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, etc.)

• Optional but highly recommended

• Helps buyers feel confident and uncover hidden issues

• Can lead to renegotiation or seller repairs

💰 Appraisal

• Ordered by the lender

• Determines fair market value

• Required if a mortgage is involved

• Protects the lender from over-financing a property

• Based on comps, location, and condition — not cosmetic preferences

Why You Need Both

An inspection looks inside the walls.
An appraisal looks at the market as a whole.

If you're unsure what to expect with either step, let’s connect. I’ll walk you through it all with no pressure.