1.
Attend the inspection. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but seeing the real thing, up close and personal, is always best!
2.
It's helpful for the buyer's agent to receive a copy of the report. The home buyer needs to grant permission, so it's important to provide the inspector with correct contact info for everyone authorized to receive a copy.
3.
Print out a paper copy of the report.
4.
Immediately go to the Summary section and
HIGHLIGHT
all items in this section. Typically, these are the problem areas that deserve special attention.
5.
Read and review the entire report.
HIGHLIGHT
all items that are identified as not functioning and/or are in need of repair, replacement or further evaluation.
6.
If you have unanswered questions, you notice any items pointed out during the inspection are missing from the report, or you find a mistake on the report, contact the home inspector ASAP for correction and/or clarification.
7.
If the report is corrected or revised, be sure to request a revised copy if the inspector doesn't automatically send one. Review the revised copy.
8.
Determine if there are any items on the summary list that are negotiable, especially "big ticket" items.
9. After careful review of the facts presented, decide if this house is going to be a "money pit" or a smart investment.
10.
If the decision is made to move forward with the purchase, follow the advice and recommendations in the inspection report PRIOR TO CLOSING.
