Home Inspection 101

Report Length

Don't panic over the page count.

Inspectors are trained to flag everything, including minor wear and tear. A 30-plus page report on a brand-new home is normal — it means the inspector did the job, not that something's wrong with the house.

What Actually Matters

Focus on the big stuff.

Inspections exist to catch structural problems, faulty wiring, plumbing leaks, mold, and water intrusion. A squeaky door or scuffed paint isn't why you're paying for this.

Reading The Report

Findings usually fall into three categories.

• Concern or Repair — things that need fixing.
• Maintenance — routine upkeep.
• Due Diligence / Monitor — keep an eye on it, or plan to address it over time.

That breakdown separates what needs attention now from what's just part of owning a home.

If Something Serious Turns Up

We'll talk strategy, not panic.

Asking the seller to repair something sounds obvious, but it hands them control over who does the work and how — and it might not get finished before closing. Usually the stronger move is negotiating a credit for the cost of the repair instead. Either way, we'll figure out the right path together, not guess at it.

What An Inspection Isn't For

It's not a wishlist.

Using minor items to squeeze the price down or push for upgrades is a good way to make a seller stop negotiating altogether, even on the repairs they'd have otherwise agreed to. Treat the inspection like a check-up, not a leverage play.