Inspection Day: What to Expect & How to Prepare

A home inspection is a crucial part of the real estate process, offering buyers a detailed look at the overall condition of a property before finalizing the purchase. Understanding what happens during an inspection—and how to prepare—can help ensure everything goes smoothly and that the results are as thorough and accurate as possible.

Most home inspections take approximately three hours and involve a comprehensive visual assessment of the home's major systems and components, including the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems, attic, insulation, doors, windows, and more. Inspectors document observations, identify potential concerns and provide insightful recommendations on areas that may need repair or ongoing maintenance.

A few good questions to ask your home inspector include:

👉 Are there any safety concerns or hazards I should address immediately?
👉 Which issues are common for a home this age vs. major repairs to prioritize?
👉 What should I budget for in the next 5 years?

Preparing for the inspection ahead of time can make a big difference in its effectiveness and efficiency. Sellers (or agents) should ensure that the inspector has clear access to key areas of the home. If you’re the buyer, you can check in with the seller or real estate agent to confirm these areas will be accessible.