According to the agents in the episode, inspection is one of the most crucial parts — and one of the most avoided by buyers trying to save money — of the home-buying process in California. The reason is simple: most houses in the state are built with wood, which brings specific termite and mold risks that don't always show up in a quick walkthrough.

What the general inspection covers — and what it doesn't

The general inspection evaluates the house as a whole, but has limits: for example, it typically doesn't include the yard's sprinkler system. That's why agents recommend sitting down with the buyer beforehand to align exactly what will — and won't — be checked, so they know whether they need to hire a specialized inspector separately (roof, plumbing, termites).

Termites are the rule, not the exception

One of the most repeated points in the episode: in coastal and more humid areas of California, finding termites during an inspection is extremely common — it's not a sign that the house is bad. In drier areas, like parts of Santa Clarita, the incidence tends to be lower. What matters is telling apart an isolated infestation from a bigger structural problem.

The cost is worth the risk

A general inspection costs, on average, between $400 and $600 — an amount the agents describe as practically negligible compared to the value of a million-dollar home, but one that can prevent an expensive surprise after moving in.

When to order a specialized inspection

• An old roof — roofs in the region generally last between 30 and 40 years.
• Visible signs of termites or moisture.
• Older houses with no clear record of recent renovations.

Sources and verification

• Agents' explanation of general inspection, specialized inspections and average cost in the episode.
• Transcript of episode 4 of the Cadê Moradia podcast (March 2026).

This topic comes from the full episode — watch it:

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