If you want to save money from hiring a professional home inspector, here are some tips to help you do your own preliminary home inspection.

Inspect the exterior look of the house by standing in front of the yard.  Does it look shabby or messy? Does the yard look well maintained?  Take a closer look at the foundation of the house.  Check for any signs of rot or cracks that may indicate extra structural work.  Check the driveway and sidewalks to see how strongly the house is situated and the volatility of the soil.  Don’t forget to take a look at how the landscaping, driveway, sidewalks and gutters are pitched away from the house that could indicate poor and improper drainage of moisture that could lead to erosion.

After thoroughly inspecting the outside of the house, the next step to do is check the interior.  Make sure that the doors and handles are secure, move smoothly, and close securely and in good condition.  Check all cabinets by opening and closing them.  Check the water pressure by turning on the water in every sink and check the faucets and fixtures if they are in perfect condition.  Make sure that there is no rotting behind kitchen and bathroom tiles by checking for loose and moving tiles.  Check the stairs and banisters by going up and down to see if they wiggle.