Inspections & Appraisals
Most buyers will hire a licensed property inspector to verify the condition of your home before moving forward. The inspection timeline will be outlined in the Purchase Agreement. Some buyers bring in specialists to evaluate specific systems such as the roof, plumbing, or HVAC separately.
If the buyer is financing the purchase, a licensed appraiser will also review your property. The lender needs confirmation that the agreed-upon price reflects the actual market value before they commit to the loan.
The Closing Agent
A title company or attorney serves as the closing agent, examining the recorded history of your property to certify that the title is clear of encumbrances such as leases, mortgages, or restrictions. Their job is to ensure a clean, legally sound transfer of ownership to the buyer.
Ready to take the first step? Call us at 757.617.0280 or complete our short form and one of our agents will be in touch to schedule your free property consultation.
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Contingencies
A contingency is a condition that must be satisfied before the contract becomes legally binding. Buyers commonly include contingencies tied to the home inspection and securing financing.
Before completing the purchase, the buyer will typically:
- Secure financing and insurance
- Review all pertinent documents including preliminary title reports and disclosure statements
- Complete inspections covering areas such as roof, termite and pest, chimney, property boundaries, well, septic, pool and spa, mold, lead-based paint, HVAC, and more
When a buyer comes back requesting renegotiation based on inspection findings, having an experienced listing agent in your corner makes a measurable difference. We have navigated these situations before, and we know how to respond fairly, strategically, and in your best interest.
Loan Approval and Appraisal
We recommend accepting offers from buyers who carry a pre-approval letter or written loan commitment rather than a simple pre-qualification. Expect the lender's appraiser to review your property and confirm the sales price is supported by market value.
TIPS THAT MOVE PROPERTIES FASTER
Give Your Home a Deep Clean
First impressions do not get a second chance. Before your home hits the market, it needs to be immaculate. Clean every surface, scrub every bathroom, mop every floor, and if needed, bring in professionals to get it done right. A clean home signals to buyers that it has been cared for, and that matters.
Declutter With Purpose
When a home is clear of clutter, buyers stop seeing your belongings and start seeing their future. Piles of mail, crowded countertops, and general disorganization are distractions that cost you money. Remove what does not belong and organize what stays.
Handle Repairs Before You List
Buyers notice everything. A dripping faucet, a broken hinge, or a cracked tile tells a story you do not want to tell. Take care of repairs before you list so buyers walk in with confidence, not a list of concerns.

