When you are buying a home for the first time, you’re likely to run into many processes that you haven’t been through before. One of the most important parts of the purchasing process is your property inspection. It may seem daunting, but if you know your role and the role of others, it can make the process less stressful. Here is what you should expect for each role in the property inspection process.
The Buyer
Your job will be to learn about the property during inspection. Before the inspection, you should prepare by looking over the property disclosures or any other building department documentation that you’ve received up until that point. Make a list of any questions or concerns you have about those documents and address any issues that the listing agent may have pointed out. Ask your agent what the typical inspections are for your market and make sure you set aside a few hours for the inspection. If you are not able to attend the full inspection, you should at least be there for the end to get a verbal run down from the inspector.
The Buyer’s Agent
Your agent should be with you and help to walk you through the inspection. Your agent should know what to look for during inspections and be able to let you know what is important and needs to be addressed before the transaction is complete and what is a quick fix. Your agent will be able to review the full written inspection report with you and prepare you for related negotiations.
The Listing Agent
In most cases, the listing agent will not be present for the inspection. However, in some cases, the listing agent will be there to advocate for the seller and help to address any issues that may arise, as they are likely the most familiar with the property. Otherwise, your agent may discuss common property matters with the listing agent prior to the inspection, including location of items such as the hot water heater or elevator instructions.
The Inspector
You will hire the property inspector as the buyer and schedule all related appointments, ideally during your option period. You can get a referral from your agent (or send me a DM) to find a licensed inspector in your state. The inspector is there to explain what may need to be changed about a property and the potential cost it would have for you. They are not there as a contractor and will not be fixing these problems, they simply inspect the property and overall state of the house. A written report will be provided, typically the following day, with a summary of all findings.
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