Before finding the perfect house, a home inspection checklist is more than getting the most square-footage and closet space for the cheapest price possible. You're also buying a dream.

But don't let the stars in your eyes get in the way of making sure your dream home doesn't become a money pit.

A home inspection is a vital step in making sure your future home will really be your castle. Skipping this important step could result in a real nightmare. A good checklist can be a helpful tool.

Before you sign off on your new home, follow our home inspection checklist. You'll sleep better in your new bedroom, and it can help save you big bucks--especially when it comes to your homeowners insurance.

What's It Made Of?

Consider where the house is located in relationship to the local weather.
For example:

If you're looking at property near the Atlantic or Gulf coasts, a brick home will be more resistant to hurricanes.
If you’re buying in an area prone to earthquakes, look for a newer house. It will have been built to meet the most current codes. If you're dead set on an older home in an earthquake zone, make sure it's been bolted to its foundation.

How Old Is It?

Older homes tend to include features that are more expensive to repair or replace. Things like plaster walls, crown moldings, carved newel posts and wooden floors carry a big price tag. This will mean more expensive home insurance.

If you fall in love with an antique, you can still save money by making sure it's been updated to comply with all current building codes.

Fixer-Upper?

The DIY diva in you may long for a pet project, but don't be fooled by a bargain basement price tag. Sure, you'll save money on your mortgage, but you'll be spending a whole lot more for insurance until you get all the fixing done. If you can't resist a diamond in the rough, at least make sure it has a good roof and a solid foundation which will help you keep insurance costs down.

Home Inspection Guide: What Lies Beneath?

From electrical to heating and plumbing, be sure to check out the condition of everything that runs above, beneath and in between the home's walls. Outdated systems are considered a high risk by insurance companies and your rates will reflect that.

Playing It Safe?

You'll get very nice discounts for hooking up your house with all sorts of safety features. Insurers are big fans of smoke, fire and burglar alarm systems. They especially like the ones that alert an outside service, and they’ll show you love in the form of a lower rate. Strong doors, dead bolt locks and window locks could also score you savings.

Extra Features?

Whether it's a pool, a trampoline, or a wood-burning stove, having extra features with inherent risks means you'll also need extra insurance. In this case, definitely opt for higher limits on your property and liability coverage. And consider additional coverage such as an umbrella or excess liability policy.

The "L" Word

You're probably sick of hearing about location at this point, but there’s a reason real estate agents can't seem to stop chanting "location, location, location!" It's not just about great schools and access to fabulous shopping. Location also plays a big role when it comes to saving on home insurance.

• Homes near a fire station, those with a hydrant close by and those located in communities with a professional fire department rather than volunteer fire department will cost less to insure.
• Lots of trees? You may think the big, mature trees surrounding your home add character. They do. But they'll also add to your insurance premium. Removing trees from within striking distance of the house is a good idea if saving cash is a priority.
• Homes near the coast will be more expensive to insure because the risk of hurricane, wind or water damage is greater.
• If you're in an area prone to flooding or earthquakes, you'll need to get separate insurance to cover those risks. Check out the federal government's flood insurance plans.

Don't let the dreams in your head end up causing a hole in your wallet when you're buying a home. Follow our home inspection checklist to make sure you're getting what you pay for--and save money on your homeowners insurance, too.