Inspections & Appraisals

Most buyers will arrange for a licensed property inspector to evaluate the home before closing. Some buyers hire multiple specialists to review specific systems — roofing, plumbing, HVAC, and others. Inspection timelines are outlined in the Purchase Agreement.

If the buyer is financing the purchase, a licensed appraiser appointed by their lender will also review the property to confirm that the agreed-upon sale price is supported by market data. This step protects the lender's investment and is a standard part of most financed transactions.

The Role of the Closing Agent

A title company or attorney will serve as the closing agent, responsible for reviewing your property's recorded history, confirming that the title is clear of any encumbrances — such as liens, mortgages, or legal restrictions — and certifying that ownership can be cleanly transferred to the buyer at closing.

Understanding Contingencies

A contingency is a condition that must be satisfied before the Purchase Agreement becomes legally binding. Common contingencies include:

• Securing financing and homeowner's insurance
• Reviewing all pertinent documents, including title reports and seller disclosure statements
• Completing property inspections — which may include roof, pest, chimney, HVAC, mold, pool, septic, lead-based paint, and more

If a buyer requests renegotiation based on inspection findings, having an experienced listing agent in your corner makes a decisive difference. We know how to respond fairly, protect your position, and keep the deal moving forward.

Loan Approval and Appraisal

We recommend prioritizing buyers who come with a lender's pre-approval letter or written loan commitment — a stronger indicator of financing reliability than a simple pre-qualification. Expect the lender to send an appraiser to verify that your sale price aligns with current market value.