Inspections: The Deal-Saver You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Alright, agents, let’s talk inspections. Not the flashiest part of the real estate process, but they are critical. Inspections are where things can get real—or real messy. Whether you’re on the buyer’s side or the seller’s, understanding how to navigate inspections with confidence will keep your deals on track and save your clients (and yourself) from some serious headaches.

What’s an Inspection, and Why Should Agents Care?

In a nutshell, an inspection is a detailed check-up on the property's condition, conducted by a licensed home inspector. They’re looking for structural issues, mechanical problems, safety hazards—you name it. But here’s why it matters for you:

1. Buyer's Agents: The inspection is your client’s first in-depth look at what they’re about to buy. You need to help them understand what’s worth negotiating over and what’s just regular maintenance they’ll need to handle.

2. Listing Agents: This is where surprises can pop up and derail your deal. Prepping your seller in advance about potential issues or getting a pre-listing inspection can help you avoid last-minute deal-breakers.

What to Expect During the Inspection Process

Here’s how it usually goes down:

• Inspector’s Visit: The home inspector will spend anywhere from 2-4 hours going through every nook and cranny of the house. They’ll check everything from the foundation to the roof, plumbing to electrical, HVAC to the appliances.

• The Report: After the visit, the inspector compiles a report full of all their findings. Some things will be big deals, others not so much—but to your buyer, everything can look like a catastrophe if you don’t guide them through it.

The Agent’s Role in Inspections

Whether you’re representing the buyer or the seller, here’s how you stay on top of the inspection process:

• For Buyer’s Agents: Make sure your clients attend the inspection, if possible. This gives them a firsthand look at the home and helps them understand what’s a major issue versus what’s normal wear and tear. Afterward, go over the report with them and discuss which issues are worth negotiating over. Pro tip: remind them that no home is perfect—not even new construction.

• For Listing Agents: You don’t want the inspection to be the first time you or your seller hears about problems with the house. Encourage your sellers to disclose known issues upfront or even get a pre-listing inspection to stay ahead of the game. That way, you can fix problems or adjust the price accordingly, avoiding the drama later.

What’s Covered in an Inspection?

Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically inspected:

• Structural: Foundation, framing, roof, and walls.

• Exterior: Siding, windows, doors, gutters, and drainage.

• Roofing: Condition of shingles, flashing, chimneys, and any skylights.

• Electrical: Outlets, switches, main panel, and wiring.

• Plumbing: Water heater, pipes, faucets, and drainage.

• HVAC: Heating and cooling systems, plus ductwork.

• Appliances: Anything that’s staying with the home—stoves, dishwashers, etc.

Note: Inspectors don’t check things like swimming pools, septic systems, or wells unless you specifically ask for it.

Negotiating After the Inspection

Here’s where it gets fun. If the inspection report reveals issues, the buyer has a few options:

• Ask for repairs: The buyer can request the seller to fix certain things before closing.

• Request a credit: Instead of repairs, the buyer might ask for a price reduction or closing cost credit to cover future fixes.

• Walk away: If the inspection reveals major deal-breakers and there’s an inspection contingency, the buyer can back out.

For Buyer’s Agents: This is where you manage expectations. Help your client prioritize what’s really important. Is it a safety hazard or a structural problem? Definitely negotiate. Minor things like leaky faucets or chipped paint? Probably not worth losing the deal over.

For Listing Agents: If you know there’s an issue coming up, get ahead of it. Be ready with options for your seller, whether that’s making repairs, offering a credit, or standing firm on the price if it’s a minor issue.

Pre-Listing Inspections: The Secret Move for Sellers

Pre-listing inspections are an underrated tool. By having the home inspected before listing, you can:

1. Avoid Surprises: Get ahead of any problems that could come up during the buyer’s inspection and potentially tank the deal.

2. Fix Issues Early: Address any repairs on your timeline, without the pressure of the buyer’s clock ticking.

3. Build Confidence: Having a pre-inspected home signals to buyers that you’re serious and transparent, which can even help you justify your asking price.

Final Thoughts: Inspections Are Your Deal’s Safety Net

Inspections aren’t just a necessary evil—they’re a safeguard for both your buyers and sellers. When you understand the process and guide your clients through it like a pro, you’re the one keeping the deal on the rails.

So don’t sleep on this part of the process. Be prepared, know how to interpret the findings, and negotiate like a boss. The inspection phase? It’s where agents separate themselves from the pack. Now get out there and close that deal!

Want to level up even more?
For answers to common real estate questions, check out our Agent Articles.
Want expert insights? Hit up our Agent Bookshelf.
Looking to streamline your game? Check out our Agent Resources.
Not subscribed to our newsletter yet? Do that here.