Your agent has probably recommended an inspection of the home you are trying to buy, right? Here's an idea of what to expect...

1. So…Your offer got accepted. Now what?
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM
THE INSPECTION

2. My agent says I should get an inspection
during our option period. But what
exactly is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive
examination of the condition of a
home, often in connection with the sale of
that home. This is usually conducted by a
home inspector who has the training and
certifications to perform such inspections.
The inspector prepares a report and delivers
it to the home buyer. The homebuyer then
uses the knowledge gained to make
informed decisions about their pending real
estate purchase.

3. CHOOSING AN INSPECTOR
It’s your job to choose your
inspector, although your agent may provide
with you a list you can use as a starting
point
Choose an inspector who can access the
home using a “SupraKey”
Schedule early in the “Option Period” if
possible
Most home inspections last 2 to 3 hours

4. YOUR AGENT MAY NOT ATTEND
I’m not a licensed
inspector, so it’s
best for only you
and the inspector
to be present.
I’ll discuss
the findings
with you
afterward

5. So, what exactly
does the inspector
look for?

6. EXTERIOR ELEMENTS
Chimneys
Roof Flashing,
Gutters
Walls
Garage,
Doors & Slab
Foundation

7. GROUNDS / EXTERIOR
Porches
Pool
Landscaping
Grading

8. IN THE KITCHEN
Cabinets
Sinks
Counters
Installed
Appliances

9. IN THE BATHROOM
Ventilation
Showers,
Tubs
Sinks
Toilets

10. INTERIOR
Walls Ceilings
Switches
Doors
Stairs
Plugs
Floors

11. And
INSPECTORS ALSO LOOK FOR: sometimes
we look for
termites!
PLUMBING
Main services, supply lines, waste lines and water
heaters
HEATING/COOLING
Fuel system, furnaces, air conditioners, ductwork, etc.
ELECTRICAL
Main services, panels, branch
wiring, switches, outlets, etc.
STRUCTURAL
Slab-on-grade, crawl spaces, foundations, basement
floors, beams, columns, floor joists, attic
structures, etc.

12. DON’T BE SURPRISED
Don’t be surprised by the inspection report.
It’s the inspectors job to point out
everything.
It’s your job to keep it in perspective.
You are buying a pre-existing house and all
houses will need maintenance – even after
you’re living in it.

13. FOCUS ON THE BIG THREE
Roof
Foundation
HV/AC

14. WHAT NEXT?
After reviewing the inspection report with your
agent, you’ll have some options:
Accept as is
Ask for some repairs
Ask for money instead
of repairs also called a “repair allowance”

15. THE SELLER’S TURN
The seller has options too.
They can say they won’t do ANY repairs
They can say they will make some, but not all
They can decide to do a repair allowance

16. DON’T WORRY

17. LOOK AT THE BIG PICTURE
No inspection is ever
PERFECT – even at brand Many items in the inspection report will be
new builder homes! minor – they shouldn’t deter you from buying
a house that you liked enough to make an
offer on. Every home will have little issues
that can be easily solved or accepted
Issues with the “Big Three” --
Roof, HV/AC
(heating, ventilation, air However, even if the
conditioning) and Foundation inspector turns up an
ARE important and your issue with one of the
agent should address your “Big Three” it can still
options be addressed or fixed.

18. The purpose of the inspection is to give you a clearer picture
of the health of the home you are buying and to alert you IF
there are any major issues BEFORE you move in.
It’s not to tell you that you’re getting a perfect house. No
house is perfect…just perfect for YOU!