Buying or selling a home can be a long and confusing process. When considering all of the steps you need to take, there may be a temptation to try to cut corners. One thing homeowners and homebuyers are often confused about is the difference between a home inspection and a home appraisal, and may wonder, are they the same thing? Are they necessary? The short answer is that no, inspections and appraisals are not the same thing, and yes, they are both important! Here are the differences between a home inspection and an appraisal, what each of them accomplishes, and why you need them.