A standard step, not a verdict
Once your home is under contract, the buyer will almost always order a professional home inspection. It is a routine part of nearly every California sale, and it is not a test your home either passes or fails. It is simply a detailed look at the condition of the home.
Knowing what to expect helps you stay calm and respond well, because how you handle the inspection process can protect your sale and your price.
What happens during the inspection
The inspector will spend a few hours checking the roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, and major systems, along with windows, doors, and safety items. The final report lists findings in order of seriousness, from minor maintenance notes to significant items.
You do not need to be present, though many sellers choose to be available to answer questions. The most useful thing you can do is be sure the home is accessible, the utilities are on, and no clutter is blocking access to panels, attics, or crawl spaces.
Handling the repair requests
After the inspection, the buyer will typically request repairs or a credit. This is a negotiation, not a demand. Our job is to help you sort which items matter, which are routine, and which requests are reasonable to push back on.
The outcome should protect your sale and your proceeds without giving the home away. With a clear head and local expertise on your side, inspections become a step you handle with confidence instead of a source of stress.
