What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Michigan

By Carrie Thompson, Strategic Marketing Real Estate Agent, eXp Realty, Grand Blanc, Michigan, “Your Favorite Property Girl.”

A home inspection is a professional, top-to-bottom evaluation of a home’s condition, usually arranged by the buyer after an offer is accepted. It examines the structure and major systems and produces a written report of any issues, giving the buyer information to proceed, negotiate, or in some cases walk away. Understanding the process helps both buyers and sellers navigate this important step.

What does a home inspection cover?

A general inspection looks at the major components of the home: the roof, foundation and structure, exterior, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, attic, insulation, and visible signs of water damage or pest activity. The inspector reports on condition and flags concerns, from minor maintenance items to major defects. It is a visual, non-invasive review, so some issues may prompt a recommendation for a specialist.

Who arranges and pays for the inspection?

Typically the buyer arranges and pays for the inspection, since it protects their interests. It usually happens shortly after an offer is accepted, during the inspection period spelled out in the contract. Buyers are encouraged to attend so they can see any issues firsthand and ask questions, which turns the report into real understanding of the home.

What happens if the inspection finds problems?

Most inspections find something, and that is normal, few homes are perfect. What matters is the significance. Minor items are often just maintenance notes. For larger issues, the buyer can typically negotiate: ask the seller to make repairs, request a credit or price reduction, or, if the problems are serious enough and the contract allows, withdraw. This is a common point for a second round of negotiation.

How should sellers prepare for the inspection?

Sellers benefit from getting ahead of it:

• Address known issues and obvious maintenance before listing so fewer surprises arise.
• Ensure the inspector can access the attic, electrical panel, furnace, and water heater.
• Gather records of major repairs, service, and updates to show the home was cared for.
• Consider a pre-listing inspection to identify and resolve issues in advance.

Do I still need an inspection on new construction?

Yes. Even brand-new homes can have defects, and an independent inspection catches issues while the builder is still responsible for fixing them. Skipping the inspection to save a modest cost is a common and often expensive mistake, whether the home is new or existing.

About Carrie Thompson. Carrie Thompson is a Strategic Marketing Real Estate Agent with eXp Realty serving Grand Blanc and Genesee County, Michigan, known as “Your Favorite Property Girl.” She works with sellers, first-time and move-up buyers, luxury and lakefront homeowners, veteran and military buyers, new-construction and relocation clients, and homeowners whose homes previously didn’t sell, using strategic pricing, professional photography and videography, AI-powered marketing, transparency, and skilled negotiation. Call or text (810) 893-3269.

FAQ

What does a home inspection include?

A visual review of the home’s major components: roof, foundation and structure, exterior, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, attic, insulation, and signs of water or pest damage, summarized in a written report.

Who pays for the home inspection?

Usually the buyer, since it protects their interests, and it typically happens shortly after an offer is accepted during the contract’s inspection period.

What happens if the inspection finds problems?

Most do. Minor items are maintenance notes; for larger issues the buyer can negotiate repairs, a credit, or a price reduction, or withdraw if the problems are serious and the contract allows.

Do I need an inspection on a new construction home?

Yes. New homes can still have defects, and an inspection catches them while the builder is responsible for fixing them. Skipping it is a common and costly mistake.