The Home Inspection — What It Really Means
When you’re buying a home, one of the most important steps — and sometimes the most stressful — is the home inspection. It’s the point where you really get to see what’s behind the walls, under the sinks, and above the ceilings.
But here’s the truth: no house is perfect.
Not even new construction.
Every home has something that needs to be repaired, replaced, or improved — and that’s completely normal.
Why the Inspection Matters
The goal of an inspection isn’t to scare you — it’s to inform you. A professional home inspector checks all the major systems: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, foundation, and structure. You’ll receive a detailed report of anything that needs attention. Some of those things will be big (like foundation or roof issues), and others will be small — loose door handles, worn caulking, or missing smoke detectors. The key is to remember: anything can be fixed. You just have to decide who’s going to fix it — and who’s going to pay for it.
The Inspection and Remedy Periods
Once we go under contract, you’ll have a set inspection period — usually five to seven days — to complete your home inspection and review the results. After that, we move into the Request to Remedy period, typically three days. This is when we can make formal requests for repairs, credits, or other solutions. It’s important to understand that making a Request to Remedy doesn’t guarantee the seller will fix everything we ask for. They can agree, refuse, or negotiate — and we’ll work together to decide what’s worth pushing for and what’s okay to let go. My job is to help you make informed, realistic decisions based on safety, condition, and overall value.
How I Help My Clients Through It
I attend every inspection I can — unless I’m out of town — because being there in person matters.
It allows me to see what the inspector sees, ask questions, and make sure we’re all on the same page about what’s minor, what’s major, and what’s worth addressing. This helps us create a focused, reasonable Request to Remedy and keeps communication with the seller’s side professional and productive.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, inspections aren’t about finding a perfect house — they’re about finding a house that’s perfect for you. Every issue has a solution; it’s just a matter of who fixes it and how it fits into your plan. So, don’t panic when the report arrives — it’s simply part of the process. And you won’t be going through it alone.
Final thought from Katy:
When you have an experienced Realtor by your side, the inspection process becomes a tool for clarity, not confusion. I’m there at every step to help you understand your options, make smart decisions, and move forward with confidence. I’m Katy Jones with Coldwell Banker Realty,
helping you move smarter, live happier,
and love where you call home.
👉 Ready to start your home search with confidence?
Let’s talk through every step — from inspection to closing — together.
Schedule your consultation today with Katy Jones, Coldwell Banker Realty.
Contact Katy or schedule an appointment
Katy Jones
Coldwell Banker Realty
614-572-6362
Katy.Jones@CBRealty.com
www.BuySellLoveColumbusOhio.com