Top 10 Questions Sellers Ask About Home Inspections (Plus: Should You Get a Pre-Listing Inspection?)
Selling your home? Then you’ve probably got questions about the inspection process. You’re not alone — almost every seller we work with wants to know what to expect when the buyer sends in their inspector. So let’s clear up the confusion and get you ready to tackle this part of your sale with confidence.
Here are the top 10 questions sellers ask about home inspections, plus one smart move most sellers overlook.
1. Do I have to get a home inspection as a seller?
Nope! The home inspection is typically arranged (and paid for) by the buyer. That said, you can choose to do a pre-listing inspection — more on that below.
2. What do inspectors look for?
Inspectors examine the home’s major systems and structure: roof, plumbing, electrical, foundation, HVAC, insulation, and more. They’re looking for safety issues, wear-and-tear, and defects that could impact value.
3. How long does an inspection take?
Usually 2–3 hours depending on the home’s size and condition. If you’ve got a larger home or a lot of systems to check (hot tubs, fireplaces, older construction), it might take longer.
4. Should I be home during the inspection?
We recommend stepping out. Buyers often feel more comfortable asking questions without the seller around. Leave the inspector and buyer’s agent to do their thing.
5. What happens if they find something “bad”?
If a major issue is uncovered, the buyer might:
- Ask for repairs
- Request a price reduction
- Walk away (in rare cases)
Don’t panic — with the right REALTOR® (👋 that’s us), we’ll negotiate smartly and keep the deal on track.
6. Can I fix things ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s smart to! If you already know of issues (leaky faucet, broken outlet, etc.), tackle them before showings start. It shows buyers the home has been cared for.
7. Will cosmetic issues be a problem?
Not usually. Inspectors focus on functionality and safety, not paint colours or outdated cabinets. But signs of neglect (peeling paint, missing trim) can give a bad impression.
8. Can I see the inspection report?
Only if the buyer chooses to share it. Sometimes we’ll get it as part of negotiations, especially if they’re asking for repairs or credits.
9. What if the buyer backs out because of the inspection?
It happens — but rarely if your home is priced right and marketed well. A strong agent (hey, that’s us again) can help reduce this risk and keep backup options lined up.
10. Can I challenge what the inspector finds?
If something seems off, yes — you can bring in your own specialist for a second opinion (electrician, roofer, etc.). Not all inspection calls are black-and-white.
BONUS: Should I get a pre-listing inspection?
Great question — and for many sellers, the answer is yes.
A pre-listing inspection lets you:
- Spot and fix issues early
- Price more accurately
- Build buyer trust
- Speed up the sale process
It’s especially helpful in older homes or competitive markets. Plus, it shows you’re serious and transparent — which today’s buyers love.
TL;DR? Here’s what matters:
✅ Know what inspectors look for
✅ Fix obvious issues beforehand
✅ Consider a pre-listing inspection
✅ Don’t panic — we’ve got your back
Thinking of selling in Edmonton or beyond? At ARIVL, we help sellers prep smart, list right, and move forward confidently. Whether it’s your first sale or your fifth, your real estate adventure awaits — and we’re ready when you are.
