How to Navigate a Home Inspection Report as a Buyer

Inspection reports can look intimidating, but they don’t need to be. After 15 years helping Maryland buyers, here’s the way I break them down so the process stays calm and manageable.

1. Look at the Big Picture First

Don’t start with the “deficiencies” list.
Start by asking: Does this home feel generally well maintained?
A long list of minor items is usually far less concerning than one major structural issue.

2. Break the Report Into Three Buckets

This keeps everything simple:

• Safety/Structural: electrical hazards, active leaks, major concerns. These matter.
• Mechanical/Functional: HVAC performance, windows sticking, plumbing fixes.
• Maintenance: caulking, loose handles, minor cosmetic notes; normal for any home.

3. Use the “Need / Want / Nice-to-Have” Filter

I help buyers sort issues into:

• Need: must address
• Want: worth asking for
• Nice-to-Have: save for after closing

This avoids overwhelming the seller and keeps negotiations productive.

4. Credits Many Times Beat Repairs

I will many times advise buyers to request credits instead of seller repairs.  This depends on the specific repair(s) and your comfort level with taking on work after settlement.

By receiving a credit, you control:

• Who does the work
• The quality
• The timing

Sellers often prefer this too.

5. Don’t Always Panic About Age Alone

Older systems aren’t automatically “bad,” and newer systems aren’t automatically “good.”
Condition/quality is many times preferred over age. That being said, you should always budget for a replacement for an older appliance or mechanical system.

6. Remember: No Home Is Perfect

Even new construction has issues. There will never be a perfect inspection report, the goal is to understand what you’re buying and making smart decisions on how to navigate any serious issues.

7. I’m Here to Help You Interpret Everything

My job is to help you see what truly matters, what’s normal, and what’s worth negotiating.
Most inspection reports look scary on paper but make complete sense when viewed with the right context.