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Inspections & Appraisals
Most buyers will have the property examined by a licensed property inspector.
Inspections & Appraisals
Most buyers will schedule a licensed home or property inspection as part of the purchase process, with inspection timelines outlined in the Purchase Agreement. In addition to a general inspection, buyers may also request specialized evaluations for areas such as roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, foundation, or structural components depending on the property type and condition.
Inspections help buyers better understand the condition of the property and may lead to repair requests, additional negotiations, or contingency resolutions before closing.
If the buyer is obtaining financing, the lender will typically require an independent appraisal to verify the market value of the property. The appraisal helps confirm that the purchase price aligns with current market conditions and supports the lender’s underwriting requirements. Factors such as location, square footage, condition, upgrades, and recent comparable sales are commonly considered during the appraisal process.
The Closing Agent
A title company or real estate attorney generally serves as the closing agent during the transaction. The closing agent is responsible for managing escrow funds, coordinating required documentation, reviewing title history, and helping ensure all legal and financial requirements are completed prior to closing.
Part of the closing process includes confirming that the property has clear title and that any liens, encumbrances, or outstanding ownership issues are properly addressed before ownership is officially transferred to the buyer.
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What else you should know...
Contingencies
Contingencies are conditions outlined in the Purchase Agreement that must be satisfied before the transaction can move forward to closing. Common contingencies include financing approval, property inspections, appraisal review, insurance requirements, and title verification.
During this stage of the transaction, buyers may complete several important steps, including:
- Securing final loan approval and financing
- Obtaining homeowners or property insurance
- Reviewing property disclosures and title reports
- Conducting inspections or specialized evaluations
Additional inspections may include:
- Roof inspections
- Termite or pest inspections
- Property surveys
- Well and septic inspections
- Pool or spa inspections
- Mold testing
- Lead-based paint evaluations
- HVAC system inspections
If concerns arise during inspections or contingency reviews, buyers may request repairs, credits, or contract modifications. When renegotiation becomes necessary, having an experienced listing agent is extremely valuable. Our team helps sellers respond strategically and objectively while protecting their interests and keeping the transaction moving forward whenever possible.
Loan Approval and Appraisal
Whenever possible, we recommend accepting offers from buyers who have already completed lender pre-approval or obtained written loan commitments. These approvals generally provide greater confidence and financial assurance than basic pre-qualification letters.
If the buyer is financing the purchase, the lender will typically order an independent appraisal to confirm the property’s market value. The appraiser evaluates factors such as location, condition, square footage, recent comparable sales, upgrades, and overall market conditions to determine whether the agreed purchase price is supported by current market data.
A successful appraisal and final loan approval are important milestones that help move the transaction toward a smooth and successful closing.
Tips For Selling Your Home
Deep Clean the Property
A professionally cleaned home creates a stronger first impression. Pay close attention to kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows, carpets, and other high-visibility areas before showings and listing photography.
Declutter and Simplify
Removing excess furniture, personal belongings, and unnecessary items can help make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more inviting to potential buyers.
Handle Repairs Before Listing
Fixing visible maintenance issues before putting your home on the market can help buyers view the property as well cared for and move-in ready, which may improve buyer confidence and overall appeal.
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