Definition

An evaluation of a home’s condition, usually done before a purchase. It helps identify any issues that might need repairs or affect the home’s value.

What to consider

  • Schedule an inspection to uncover any hidden repair needs.
  • Use the report to negotiate a better purchase price.
  • Keep a copy for future reference or resale purposes.

Real world scenarios

  • Ben’s inspector finds a small plumbing leak, so the seller agrees to fix it before closing. This discovery saves Ben future repair costs.
  • Rebecca’s inspection reveals no major issues, confirming the price is fair and giving her peace of mind.
  • When the roof needs replacement, Chris renegotiates a credit at closing to cover a portion of the repairs uncovered by inspection.

Related terms

Real Estate & Homeownership