What Happens During the Home Inspection When Selling in Port Washington?

If you’ve accepted an offer on your home in Port Washington, the home inspection is often the next major milestone. For many sellers, this is also the most anxiety-producing part of the process. Knowing what actually happens during an inspection — and how buyers typically use the results — helps you stay grounded and respond strategically.

With guidance from Eric Berman REALTOR®, sellers can approach inspections with clarity instead of stress.

What a Home Inspection Is (and Isn’t)

A home inspection is a general assessment of the property’s condition conducted by a licensed inspector hired by the buyer.

It is designed to:

• Identify visible issues

• Evaluate major systems and components

• Help buyers understand maintenance and risk

It is not a pass-fail test, and it does not require a home to be perfect.

What Inspectors Typically Look At

During a standard inspection, buyers’ inspectors usually review:

• Roof, siding, and exterior

• Foundation and visible structural elements

• Electrical systems

• Plumbing and water flow

• Heating and cooling systems

• Windows, doors, and insulation

• Attics and basements

Inspectors focus on safety, function, and observable conditions.

How Long the Inspection Usually Takes

Most inspections in Port Washington take two to three hours, depending on the size and age of the home.

Buyers often attend the inspection, and in many cases their agent does as well. Sellers are typically not present.

What Happens After the Inspection

After the inspection, the buyer receives a written report outlining findings.

This report often includes:

• Major concerns

• Minor maintenance items

• Notes about future upkeep

Not every item leads to negotiation. Many reports contain long lists that sound alarming but are routine.

Common Inspection Issues in Port Washington Homes

Because many Port Washington homes are older, inspectors often note:

• Aging roofs or mechanical systems

• Electrical updates that don’t meet modern standards

• Minor foundation or drainage observations

• Deferred maintenance items

These are common and usually manageable when handled calmly.

How Buyers Typically Respond

Buyers may:

• Accept the report as informational

• Request repairs or credits for major items

• Ask for clarification on specific findings

Most negotiations focus on safety or significant issues, not cosmetic ones.

How Sellers Should Approach Inspection Requests

Strong sellers respond strategically rather than emotionally.

That often means:

• Prioritizing major issues over minor ones

• Considering credits instead of repairs

• Understanding which requests are reasonable

• Keeping the larger deal in mind

Not every request requires a “yes,” and not every request threatens the deal.

When Inspections Kill Deals (and When They Don’t)

Deals are more likely to fall apart when:

• Communication breaks down

• Expectations were misaligned before the offer

• Sellers react defensively instead of strategically

Most inspections do not end deals when handled with clarity and experience.

How Eric Berman REALTOR® Helps Sellers Through Inspections

Eric helps sellers navigate inspections with perspective.

That includes:

• Reviewing inspection reports in context

• Helping sellers understand which items matter

• Advising on repair vs credit strategies

• Keeping negotiations productive and calm

The goal is to protect the deal while protecting the seller’s interests.

FAQs

Should I fix issues before the inspection?
Only certain items benefit from pre-inspection repairs. A strategic review helps decide what’s worth addressing. You can discuss that here: https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Do buyers expect a perfect inspection report?
No. Buyers expect issues, especially in older homes. What matters is how major items are handled. Learn more here: https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Can I refuse inspection repair requests?
Yes. Everything is negotiable. Strategy depends on market conditions and deal strength. You can review options here: https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Is it better to offer a credit than make repairs?
Often yes. Credits can be simpler and reduce liability. This depends on the situation. You can explore approaches here: https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Do inspections delay closing?
Not usually, if handled promptly. Clear communication keeps timelines on track. You can plan timing here: https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com