Purchasing a home is a whirlwind of a process with lots of moving parts. Sometimes it’s hard to know what to do and when to do it, especially if you are a first time home buyer. One of the most crucial stages of the home buying process is the home inspection.

As a home inspection company, our clients will commonly ask: “what should I do during the inspection?”

We know it can get overwhelming, but not to worry! Because in this article, we will break down what to do when it is time for your inspection.

Attend the Home Inspection

First of all, if you are able to attend the inspection, it is a good idea to do so. It is commonly accepted that, as the buyer, you may be present while the inspection is conducted. If you are unable to attend the inspection, it helps to have your agent or an authorized representative attend on your behalf.

We will generally inform our clients about the approximate length of the inspection, and when the inspector will be ready to present his/her summary. (This is an estimate based on the size and age of the house).

In some cases, buyers and agents will arrive around summary time. However, you are welcome to be onsite for the duration of the whole inspection.

Get to Know the Home

You probably saw the house online and likely went to an in-person showing. But the inspection will give you a chance to spend more time and really get familiar with the property. Take advantage!

Be sure to come armed with a tape measurer. Now is the time to plan for that perfectly-sized couch or dining room table, or whether or not to go with a queen or king-sized bed.

This is also the time to find all the important controls in the home. Our inspectors will show you the location of the main water shut-off, electrical box, thermostats, and any other crucial controls.

During your time at the home, you should make observations on your own and take note of any questions or concerns that may arise. That way, when it comes time for the inspection summary, you will be prepared to pick your inspector’s brain.

Following Along with Your Inspector

While you explore your potential new home, your inspector will be hard at work, carefully examining each aspect of the residence. There is no need to follow the inspector every step of the way, as he/she will cover each item in detail during the summary. However, it can be beneficial to observe the big ticket items, such as the foundation, HVAC system, water heater, and electrical.

These are some of the most important facets of the home, and certain defects or damage to these components could mean costly repairs. So naturally, it is paramount for the inspector to convey any major concerns in a clear and understandable manner. In many cases, it’s easiest for the inspector to articulate these types of issues by showing you in person.

Home Inspection Summary

When the home inspection is complete, it is standard to have an in-person summary. During this time, the inspector will highlight all the items of concern. At Scott Home Inspection, our inspectors divide their observations into 3 main categories: maintenance items, repair recommendations, and immediate action recommendations. 

To see a sample of our Home Inspection Reports, click here

Utilizing this categorical system, the inspector will help you to understand what issues are most important to address. Once the inspector has concluded his/her summary, it is now your time to fire away with any questions or concerns. Our inspectors are highly experienced, knowledgeable, and happy to address any issues you may have.

In addition to a full onsite summary and discussion, we will send you the full report that same day. You can also reach out with any additional questions that might come up later on.

At Scott Home Inspection, it is our priority to make sure you walk away from the inspection feeling comfortable and confident to take the next step (whatever that step may be). If you are in need of a home inspection, feel free to reach out for more information or to schedule your inspection today!

If you’re buying a home, we know the process can sometimes be intimidating. From real estate agents to home inspectors and mortgage brokers, there are a lot of different people involved in the purchase of a home.  Sometimes, it can be confusing regarding the working relationship that you should have with each person involved.

So, in this article, we’ll break down the home inspector and real estate agent relationship, to help you understand what you should expect when working with a real estate agent and home inspector.

Your Real Estate Agent Is Your Coach

To use a sports analogy, you can think of your real estate agent as the coach. They can help advise you, find homes for you to look at, inform you about real estate conditions, and facilitate the closing process.

Basically, your real estate agent is responsible for coordinating the entire home purchasing process and ensuring that you find homes to look at that meet your needs and expectations. They should always be your primary point of contact when you’re looking for a home.

Once you are under contract, your real estate agent will also help you decide when to schedule your home inspection, and may have some home inspector referrals.

Your Home Inspector Is Part Of Your Team

To continue with our sports analogy, a home inspector is part of your team, a team member that can help you reach your goal.

As such, your home inspector offers expert and objective information on a property.  We operate as part of your team, and once we’ve inspected a home, we pass along information about its condition to you and your real estate agent.

That’s the limit of a home inspector’s job. We won’t offer an opinion about whether or not you should buy a home, or provide you with further home-buying advice. Our job is to provide you with the objective information that you need to make a more informed decision.

This information is then laid out and decisions are made by you and your real estate agent. An experienced agent will have likely seen many of the issues that come up in your inspection report. Because of this, you can lean on them to help determine the best course of action.

Need a home inspection performed in the Colorado Front Range? We have large service area from Fort Collins to Denver to Colorado Springs. Learn more about our inspection services here.

You’re The One Who Makes The Final Decision

If your real estate agent is the coach, you can think of yourself as the owner of the sports team. You have the final say over whether or not you move forward with a home purchase.

But, it’s always a good thing to listen to your coach. Based on the results of a home inspection, you need to decide what is right for you. You should consult with your real estate agent to get their opinion and let their experience guide your decision.

Everyone has a different tolerance on repairs needed to a home. Some buyers like to fix everything themselves, and others want the house to be defect free. Either way is OK.

However, no house is perfect, so lean our your team to help make the final decision. But know where the separation between a home inspector and real estate agent relationship comes into play.

Keep The Role Of Each “Team Member” Clear When Buying A Home!

We hope this article has been helpful in explaining the different responsibilities of a home inspector and real estate agent relationship. While home inspectors are a valuable part of your team, we’re not decision-makers.

That responsibility always lies with you and your real estate agent. What you do with the information provided as a result of the home inspection is completely up to you!

Are you in need of a home inspection? Schedule one with us now! We have a large selection of add on inspections and tests that many home buyers want. Learn more today.