## News Details

## The Importance of Home Inspections

- Frank Muller
- January 27, 2025

In today's competitive real estate market, homebuyers face increasing pressure to make their offers more attractive to sellers—sometimes at the expense of their own protection. One troubling trend is the waiving of home inspections, a practice that has been encouraged by recent changes to standard real estate contracts in Georgia. As your advocate in the homebuying process, I want to explain why inspections remain absolutely essential, regardless of market conditions.

#### The Standard Practice in Atlanta

In the Atlanta area, home inspections have long been a standard part of the real estate transaction process. After a seller accepts a buyer's offer, the buyer typically has a one-week window before closing to bring in a professional home inspector. This inspector examines the property for issues ranging from minor maintenance concerns to major structural problems. This inspection period represents a crucial opportunity for buyers to truly understand what they're purchasing—before it's too late.

Home inspections are a critical step in the home buying process for several reasons. First and foremost, they provide buyers with a clear understanding of the property's condition. This knowledge can help buyers make informed decisions about whether to move forward with the purchase, renegotiate the price, or walk away from the deal altogether.

By identifying potential issues before closing, home inspections also help buyers protect their financial investment. If a major problem is discovered after the sale, the buyer may be responsible for covering the cost of repairs, which can be a significant financial burden. By conducting a thorough inspection, buyers can avoid these unexpected expenses and ensure that they're making a sound investment.