Welcome
Buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions you'll ever make. This guide is designed to educate buyers about the inspection process, identify hidden risks, and demonstrate how due diligence protects both your investment and your peace of mind.
- Professional inspections provide information — not opinions — about the condition of the property.
- Inspection findings often create opportunities to negotiate repairs, credits, or price reductions.
- Every home is different, and recommended inspections vary based on age, location, and condition.
The Inspection Timeline
Understanding the process helps buyers stay organized throughout escrow.
- Offer accepted and earnest money deposited.
- Inspection contingency period begins.
- General home inspection completed first.
- Specialty inspections ordered if recommended.
- Review reports with your Realtor.
- Negotiate repairs or credits with the seller.
- Complete final walkthrough before closing.
General Home Inspection
The general inspection is the foundation of every purchase and should almost never be skipped.
- Evaluates roof, attic, insulation and exterior
- Reviews foundation, structure and visible framing
- Tests plumbing fixtures, water heater and visible piping
- Examines electrical panel, outlets, switches and safety devices
- Tests HVAC systems and airflow
- Operates major appliances, doors and windows
- Identifies deferred maintenance and potential safety concerns
"Even beautiful homes can have expensive hidden defects. This inspection gives buyers a complete picture before making final decisions."
Sewer Scope Inspection
A sewer camera inspection evaluates the underground drain line that cannot be seen during a standard homeinspection.
- Detects root intrusion and cracked pipes
- Finds pipe offsets, bellies and partial collapses
- Identifies grease buildup or construction debris
- Verifies previous repairs and pipe condition
- Typically costs only a few hundred dollars but can prevent repairs costing thousands
"One of my buyers avoided approximately $15,000–$20,000 in unexpected repairs after a sewer scope uncovered major defects before closing."
Additional Specialty Inspections
Not every property requires every inspection. Your Realtor and inspector can help determine what is appropriate.
Luxury Homes Require Additional Due Diligence
Luxury properties often contain systems that benefit from specialist evaluations.
- Infrared Thermal Imaging
- Drone Roof Photography
- Elevators & Lifts
- Wine Cellar Climate Systems
- Whole-Home Generators
- Solar Systems & Battery Backup
- Smart-Home Automation
- High-end security and surveillance systems.
Negotiating After Inspections
Inspection reports are valuable negotiation tools.
- Request seller repairs
- Request seller credits
- Purchase price reduction
- Request specialist evaluations
- Obtain documentation or transferable warranties
- Cancel the contract
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the most common questions buyers ask during escrow.
- Should I attend the inspection?(Yes)
- How long does it usually take? (Typically 2–4 hours.)
- Should I buy a home with defects? (Most homes have them.)
- Do new homes need inspections? (Absolutely)
- What if major issues are discovered? (Review all options with your Realtor before contingency deadlines expire.)