What to Expect During a Home Inspection

Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your current one, the home inspection is one of the main steps in the real estate process. For buyers, it offers peace of mind by identifying potential issues before the deal is closed. For sellers, it provides the opportunity to fix problems early and prevent surprises. No matter which side you’re on, understanding what to expect during a home inspection—and how to prepare for it—can make the experience smoother.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a check of a property’s overall condition, typically done by a licensed professional to spot any potential issues. The purpose of the home inspection is to identify any existing or potential problems with the home, including structural concerns, safety hazards, and necessary repairs. It typically happens after the seller of the home accepts an offer but before finalizing the purchase contract.

A standard inspection covers major components of the home, including:

• Roof and exterior (shingles, gutters, siding)
• Foundation and structural elements
• Plumbing systems
• Electrical systems
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
• Windows and doors
• Attic, insulation, and ventilation
• Interior walls, ceilings, floors, and stairs
• Appliances (if included in the sale)

While inspectors won’t open walls or move furniture, they will examine accessible areas and document their findings in a detailed report.

How Long Does It Take?

The average home inspection takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property. Larger or older homes can take more time to inspect, especially if the inspector finds multiple issues that need extra attention.

What Happens During the Inspection?

The buyer (and often their real estate agent) is encouraged to attend the inspection. This provides a valuable opportunity to see the inspector’s findings firsthand and ask questions along the way. The inspector will methodically move through the home, often starting from the exterior and working inward, checking off items on a standardized list.

During the process, they may take photos, notes, and measurements. Ultimately, the inspector typically provides a verbal summary of any major concerns and will follow up with a comprehensive written report within 24–48 hours.

What’s Included in the Report?

A home inspection report typically includes:

• An overview of the home’s condition
• Photos of problem areas
• Descriptions of issues and their potential impact
• Recommendations for repairs or further evaluation by specialists

It’s important to remember that no home is perfect. The report will almost always include some issues, but not all of them are deal-breakers. Some may be minor, like loose doorknobs or leaky faucets, while others—like foundation cracks or outdated electrical wiring—might require serious attention.

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection (If You’re the Seller)

If you’re selling your home, preparing for the inspection can help things go smoothly and demonstrate that you’ve taken good care of the property. Here are some practical tips:

1. Clean and declutter: A home that is clean makes a good impression and allows the inspector to access key areas more easily.
2. Ensure access to all areas: Unlock doors, attic entries, basements, and electrical panels. Make sure nothing is blocking access to systems like the water heater or HVAC unit.
3. Replace burnt-out lightbulbs: This prevents the inspector from marking them as non-functioning fixtures.
4. Fix minor issues in advance: Leaky faucets, loose handrails, or running toilets are easy to address and can help prevent red flags in the report.
5. Gather documentation: If you’ve had recent work done (like a new roof or updated plumbing), have receipts or warranties ready to show the inspector or buyer.
6. Take pets out of the house: For safety and ease, it’s best to remove pets during the inspection window.

By taking these steps, you show transparency and help reduce the likelihood of delays or price renegotiations later.

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection (If You’re the Buyer)

Buyers should approach the inspection as a learning opportunity. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

1. Attend the inspection if possible: You’ll gain valuable insight into how the home functions and what future maintenance may be required.
2. Bring a notepad: Take notes and jot down questions as you walk through with the inspector.
3. Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about any issue the inspector mentions, especially if it sounds serious or unfamiliar.
4. Don’t panic over the report: Some issues will sound worse than they are. Lean on your agent to help interpret what’s normal and what might warrant negotiation.

After the Inspection: What’s Next?

Once the report is in hand, the buyer can:

• Accept the home as-is
• Request repairs
• Negotiate a credit
• Or, in rare cases, walk away from the deal (depending on the contract)

The seller can then respond with their own counter-offer or agreement, depending on what’s being asked.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection is a necessary checkpoint in the real estate process. It offers clarity, protects both parties, and gives everyone a chance to proceed with confidence. Whether you’re a buyer making the biggest investment of your life or a seller looking to close with confidence, preparation and communication are key.

If you’re navigating the home buying or selling journey and want an experienced, knowledgeable guide by your side, Mahdi Salarfar is here to help. With a commitment to transparency, professionalism, and your best interests, Mahdi can walk you through every step—from the home inspection to the final signature—with confidence and care.