06/16/2026
💡 Tip Tuesday: Should You Waive the Home Inspection?
One of the toughest conversations we're having with buyers in today's market is about home inspections.
In our local market, multiple-offer situations are still common, and unfortunately one of the first contingencies buyers are removing to make their offer more competitive is the home inspection.
As Realtors, we don't love seeing this happen because inspections provide valuable information and help protect buyers. However, the reality is that some buyers are losing out on homes because competing offers have fewer contingencies.
So how do you decide if waiving an inspection is worth it?
🔹 Consider the age and condition of the home. A newer home may carry less risk than a home built 100+ years ago.
🔹 Evaluate your comfort level.Are you prepared for unexpected repairs after closing if something is discovered later?
🔹 Look at your finances. Do you have reserves available if a major repair pops up unexpectedly?
🔹 Ask questions during showings. A good agent can often help identify potential red flags before you submit an offer.
🔹 Consider alternative options. Some buyers choose an informational-only inspection or, when possible, a pre-offer inspection.
🔹 Don't forget about a post-purchase inspection. If you decide to waive the inspection contingency to make your offer more competitive, you can still schedule a professional home inspection immediately after closing. While it won't provide an opportunity to negotiate repairs, it can give you peace of mind, help you prioritize future maintenance, and alert you to any concerns before they become larger problems.
At the end of the day, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every buyer's situation, risk tolerance, and goals are different. My job isn't to tell you what to do—it's to help you understand the risks and make the best decision for you.
🏡 In today's market, sometimes the winning strategy is finding the right balance between protecting yourself and making your offer attractive to sellers.
Thinking about buying? Let's talk about your options and create a strategy that works for you.
📱 570-640-6060
