Inspections and Appraisals
Once your home is under contract, the buyer will likely schedule inspections and an appraisal as part of their due diligence. These steps help confirm the property’s condition and value — and while they’re standard, they can feel stressful without the right preparation. My role is to guide you through each stage, keep you informed, and help you navigate any findings or requests that may arise.
Home Inspections
Most buyers hire a licensed home inspector within the timeframe outlined in the purchase agreement. Some may also bring in specialists — such as roofers, HVAC technicians, or structural engineers — for more detailed evaluations.
The inspection process is designed to uncover potential issues that could affect safety, function, or value. While this can feel intimidating for sellers, it’s important to remember that no home is perfect. I’ll help you understand the results, anticipate what’s reasonable to address, and respond strategically to any repair requests or renegotiations.
If the buyer is purchasing a commercial property, they may also conduct additional assessments such as an environmental audit or soil test, depending on lender requirements.
The Closing Agent
A title company or real estate attorney will act as the closing agent, ensuring the transaction proceeds smoothly and legally. Their responsibilities include:
• Reviewing and certifying that the property’s title is free and clear of liens or ownership disputes
• Holding the buyer’s earnest money deposit in escrow
• Recording any new encumbrances or ownership documents at closing
I’ll stay in close communication with the closing agent throughout the process to make sure all deadlines are met and your interests are protected.
Contingencies
A contingency is a condition that must be met for the sale to proceed. Common contingencies include financing, inspections, and appraisals. Buyers use contingencies to ensure they can secure a loan and confirm the property’s condition before finalizing the purchase.
Depending on the results of the inspection or appraisal, one of two things may happen:
The contingencies are satisfied, and we move closer to closing, or
The buyer requests repairs, credits, or a price adjustment.
If renegotiation occurs, I’ll help you evaluate the request objectively, ensuring you respond fairly while protecting your bottom line. My experience handling a wide range of transactions allows me to navigate these conversations calmly and effectively.
Loan Approval and Appraisal
If the buyer’s purchase is financed, their lender will order an appraisal to verify that the home’s value supports the agreed-upon price. The appraiser — an independent professional — reviews recent comparable sales and property details to provide an unbiased valuation.
To minimize surprises, I recommend working with buyers who already have a lender’s pre-approval or written loan commitment, as this signals strong financial readiness.
Throughout this stage, I’ll stay in contact with the buyer’s agent and lender to ensure the appraisal and loan approval process stay on track, moving us confidently toward closing day.
Staying in Control
While inspections and appraisals are important safeguards for buyers, they’re also opportunities for sellers to demonstrate transparency and confidence in their home. With my guidance, you’ll be well-prepared for each step — keeping your sale smooth, professional, and on schedule.