House Hunting This Spring? Here's What to Know About the Inspection Process

You’ve found the perfect home, and your offer has been accepted- now what? It’s time for the next big step: the home inspection. In a competitive spring market, understanding how inspections work is essential. A thorough inspection helps you make an informed decision and ensures you’re set up for success. Here’s what every West Michigan buyer should know about home inspections this spring. 

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of the property’s condition, covering everything from the roof and foundation to plumbing, electrical systems, and more. The goal is to identify any issues that could lead to costly repairs or safety concerns and ensure the home is in good condition. Since buying a home is a significant financial commitment, an inspection provides insight into the true condition of the property and helps safeguard the investment.

 Inspectors typically evaluate the following areas:

• Roof and attic: Ensuring the roof is structurally sound and free from leaks, as well as assessing ventilation and insulation in the attic.
  
  

• Foundation and structure: Checking for signs of shifting, cracking, or settling that could affect the home’s stability.
  
  

• Plumbing and electrical systems: Ensuring all plumbing is in good working order and checking the electrical system to ensure safety.
  
  

• HVAC systems: Examining the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure they function properly.
  
  

• Windows, doors, and insulation: Checking for energy efficiency, proper sealing, and signs of wear or damage.
  
  

• Appliances and fixtures: Ensuring all appliances are functioning properly and that fixtures like faucets and light switches are in good condition.
  
  

• Basements and crawl spaces: Looking for moisture, mold, or structural issues that might not be immediately visible.
  
  

Keep in mind that inspectors do not move furniture or open walls. If there are specific areas of concern or distinct features in the home, such as a septic system, well water, or a pool, additional inspections may be necessary. Agents can advise you on any specialized inspections that might be beneficial based on the property’s characteristics.

In a fast-moving market, it might be tempting to waive inspections to make your offer stand out in a competitive situation. However, skipping an inspection can leave you vulnerable to hidden issues that might require costly repairs or pose safety risks. Even in multiple-offer scenarios, many buyers still opt for inspections to ensure they are making a well-informed decision. Remember, waiving the inspection is not necessary to remain competitive—you can stay flexible by shortening the inspection window or offering a quick turnaround time.

Being strategic about inspections is key. If you’re confident in your decision to move forward with a home but want to keep some flexibility, you might consider requesting an “informational only” inspection. This allows you to assess the property’s condition and identify any potential issues without asking the seller for repairs, while still maintaining the option to back out if significant problems are found. This approach can help you stay competitive while ensuring you have the knowledge needed to proceed with confidence.

Scheduling the inspection promptly after your offer is accepted is essential to keeping the process on track. Ideally, the inspection should be completed within a few days to a week of the offer being accepted, allowing you to move quickly and stay on schedule. If possible, try to attend the inspection in person. This allows you to ask the inspector questions, better understand the home’s condition, and receive advice on potential future repairs. Walking through the home with the inspector also offers a valuable chance to learn about the property’s maintenance needs and what to can expect in terms of upkeep.

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues, often including photos and detailed notes. A licensed, experienced inspector will help you understand which concerns are minor and which may affect the home’s safety, comfort, or value. They can also provide guidance on what might need attention in the future. After reviewing the findings, you and your agent can decide whether to request repairs, credits, or concessions. Your agent will help you prioritize what’s most important and negotiate with the seller to reach a resolution that aligns with your needs. 

The home inspection is a key step in your home-buying journey. It provides the insight and confidence you need to move forward, knowing that your new home is in great condition. With thoughtful preparation, a reliable inspector, and an experienced agent by your side, the inspection process can be a positive and informative experience that leads to a smooth and successful transaction.

Have questions about the inspection process or ready to take the next step in your West Michigan home search? Contact us today at 616.437.0559 or ginger@gingerbaxter.com. We're here to guide you through every stage of the journey and help you move forward with confidence.