When should the inspections be done?
As soon as possible! The Buy and Sell contract provides that all inspections be completed within a specific number of business days. Otherwise, the buyer will forfeit the opportunity.

Can the inspection "kill" the deal?
Certainly. The inspector will look for safety issues and estimate the condition and life expectancy of the home's various components. If not satisfied with the results, the buyer can give written notice of his/her intention to terminate the contract. It is not required to give an explanation.

What inspections should be done?
The most common inspections include the structure, electrical system, plumbing, heating, pest, radon, well, septic and survey.  Buyers have also ordered inspections for mold, asbestos, swimming pools and barns and property survey.

What other kind of inspections can the Buyer do?
The inspection contingency does not limit the kind of inspections that can be performed. Buyer's have been known to check the schools, study the building and use restrictions, and inquire about criminal activity. Even cable and phone lines might be critical to Buyer who works from home.

Where do I find the inspectors?
The AT&T Yellow Pages lists over thirty home inspectors. In time, most agents develop a "short list" of inspectors they feel comfortable working with. The our Preferred Home Inspector list is good place to begin.

Who attends the inspections?
In the Greater Lansing area it's generally accepted that only the inspectors, the Buyer, and the Buyer's agent be present at the inspection. The Listing agent and the Seller should not attend.

What should your agent do at the inspection?
Provide the inspector with a copy of the disclosures and then get out of his way!  Most inspectors will walk through the home, giving helpful explanations and advice to the Buyer. This should be a learning experience for
the Buyer.

What if the Buyer doesn't initiate inspections?
Should the Buyer allow the deadline to lapse without initiating inspections, he will loose his opportunity to
do so and surrender his right to terminate the contract through the terms of the Inspection Contingency.
He now must accept the property AS IS and will probably forfeit his earnest money should he decide to terminate the contract.