Most home buyers realize that hiring a professional home inspector is a critical step in the purchasing process. But there are many misconceptions surrounding the work of inspectors that can lead to misunderstandings and disputes.

Here are 5 myths about home inspection, as noted in a recent article from CRS magazine:

Problems found by home inspectors are a way to negotiate a better purchasing price: While sellers often lower the price of a home if major problems are discovered, buyers shouldn’t think of inspections as a means to a better deal. “This is not the primary objective of a home inspection,” notes CRS. “The inspector’s professional service is one of unbiased, third-party education.”

An inspector determines what your home is worth: This is the job of the appraiser, not the inspector. Also don’t expect advice from the inspector on whether or not to buy the home, as “that is solely up to the client.”

You don’t need an inspector if you’re buying a newly built property: New properties often have major issues that an inspection will uncover. What’s more “[m]ost inspectors can also give inspections during each construction ‘phase'” of the property development.

Only buyers use inspectors: On the contrary, sellers sometimes hire inspectors to learn about existing problems before listing the property. This allows them to address the problems and enhance the home’s value. In addition, experts advise homeowners to hire an inspector every ten years, to ensure that unseen problems don’t morph into bigger issues over time.

The certifications and training of all home inspectors are created equal: Hire an inspector with care, as some, such as affiliated with InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors), receive certification online, without having to prove their knowledge through an actual inspection. Look for those, such as ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) members, whose training includes both class time and hands-on work, as well as a final examination.