After you’ve received a preliminary offer from a cash home buyer, the next step is typically to schedule a property inspection. This is a key part of the selling process that helps the buyer validate the condition of your home and finalize their offer.
Who Conducts the Inspection?
The inspection may be completed by:
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A third-party licensed home inspector, hired to give an unbiased assessment of your home’s condition, or
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A representative from the buying company, such as NPG Real Estate, who will evaluate the property in person or via a virtual walkthrough.
The inspection is usually scheduled within a few days of your initial offer acceptance and is typically free of charge to the seller.
What to Expect During the Inspection
The inspector or representative will assess various aspects of the home, including:
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Structural integrity (foundation, roofing, framing)
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HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems
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Interior and exterior condition (walls, windows, flooring)
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Signs of damage (water leaks, pest infestations, mold, etc.)
Unlike a traditional sale, you won’t be asked to make any repairs, even if issues are found. However, the findings do play a crucial role in determining the final cash offer.
How Inspection Results Affect Your Offer
Although you’re not required to fix anything, buyers will calculate the estimated cost of necessary repairs and deduct those costs from your original offer. The more extensive the damage, the more your offer may decrease.
Here’s how the math typically works:
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Initial offer: $250,000
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Estimated repairs: $20,000
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Final offer: $230,000
Being upfront about your home’s condition can help prevent major discrepancies later in the process. It’s also wise to ask if the company will share the inspection report or repair estimate, so you understand how your final offer was calculated.
Pro Tip
If you’re unsure what your home might need in terms of repairs, consider getting a pre-inspection on your own before contacting buyers. While it’s not required, it gives you better insight into potential red flags and may help you set more realistic expectations for the final offer.