By Cody Callaway · Reviewed September 23, 2026
A home inspection is not a pass/fail test. It is a detailed look at the property so you can better understand what you are buying.
What usually happens:
- The inspection is scheduled within the contract’s inspection period.
- The inspector evaluates the home’s accessible systems and components and provides a report.
- We review the findings together and separate normal maintenance from material concerns.
- Depending on the contract and what is discovered, you may decide to accept the property as-is, request repairs or credits, seek specialist evaluations, or use another contract option that is actually available to you.
What buyers should focus on:
- Safety concerns
- Active water intrusion or drainage problems
- Structural concerns
- Major roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, sewer/septic, or foundation issues
- Items that could affect financing or insurability
- Expensive problems you were not already expecting
What not to do:
Do not treat the inspection report like a punch list for making an older home brand new. Every house has maintenance items. The goal is to understand risk and negotiate thoughtfully.
You are also buying the opportunity to learn the house. Ask questions, attend when appropriate, and use the report as a future maintenance reference.
After the inspection, I’ll help you organize the findings, determine what actually matters, and handle the next contractual step before the deadline.
Your next step
Bring your property questions to the inspector, then we’ll review the findings and contract options together.