Don’t Skip the Inspections!

(Especially in North Carolina)

Buying a home is exciting! New chapters, new memories, maybe even a new fence for the dog you swore would stay off the couch (suuuuure!).
But before we skip to closing day, pop some champagne, and start painting everything “that perfect neutral color” we need to talk about something very important:

🛑 Do. Not. Skip. The. Inspections.

🏡 North Carolina Homes Are Sold As-Is

This surprises a lot of buyers, especially those moving from other states!

Every home in North Carolina is sold as-is
…unless the buyer and seller negotiate specific repairs or concessions.

That doesn’t mean sellers can hide things.
But it does mean the house comes with all its quirks, from squeaky floors to that 1994 water heater hanging on for dear life... unless we negotiate otherwise. Just keep in mind that the seller is not obligated to make a single repair. 

This is why the due diligence period matters so much.

🕵️‍♀️ Due Diligence = Time to Investigate
During this window, buyers pay for inspections, gather information, and decide if they want to move forward.

This is where transparency happens.

👉 You learn a bit about the story of the house.
👉 You uncover anything concerning.
👉 You can request repairs or credits... but it’s a negotiation.

Skimping here to “save money” can end up costing way more later.

🧰 Here are the most common inspections and why they matter:

🔍 General Home Inspection

This is the big one.

A licensed inspector looks at:

• Roof + attic
  
  
• Electrical systems
  
  
• Plumbing
  
  
• HVAC
  
  
• Structure
  
  
• Appliances
  
  
• Safety issues
  
  ... and everything in between!
  
  

This report can spark follow-ups... which is completely normal.

🚨 Who it protects:

Everyone.

If something big is discovered (which many things will be), you may:

• Begin negotiating repairs
  
  
• Request a credit
  
  
• Walk away if it’s too much
  
  

A great inspector is worth their weight in gold… and dryer vent lint.

💧 Septic Inspection

If there’s no city sewer, you will likely have a septic system. Don't worry... it's not that big of a deal!

This inspection:

• Checks the tank
  
  
• Measures sludge levels (glamorous, I know)
  
  
• Evaluates drain field performance
  
  

The goal?
✔ No backups
✔ No environmental issues
✔ No surprise $10,000 repairs

Septic problems can be like toddlers:
they escalate quickly and create chaos.

A properly running system isn't difficult to maintain.

🌬️ Radon Inspection

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes.
You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it. It’s like the introvert of gases.

But it matters because:

• Radon exposure over time can be harmful
  
  
• Levels vary from home to home
  
  
• Even brand new homes can have radon
  
  

The test is inexpensive and often easy to fix with mitigation. We don't find it in our area of NC often, but it is something that you should be aware of. 

🚰 Well & Water Testing

If the property has a well, test it.

You want to know:

• Is it producing enough water?
  
  
• Is the water safe?
  
  
• Are there contaminants?
  
  

No one wants to move in and find out their shower pressure feels like someone blowing through a straw.

If you're a VA buyer, a water quality test is required. 

Buying on a well? Ask me about Gen-X... that one deserves a blog of its own!

🪲 Termite / Wood-Destroying Insect Inspection

Wood-Destroying Insects (WDIs) are not just termites.
They also include carpenter ants, beetles, and anything that wants to turn your house into lunch.

Termites are not a scary thing in NC. In fact, they are very common. So, we require a Wood Destroying Insect Report (WDIR) for VA and highly recommend them for all purchases. 

Just as prevaillent as they are, we have a bunch of professionals who can treat for them.

Protect your investment.
Period.

📝 Why all this matters:

Skimping on inspections is like getting married without dating.
Maybe it’s fine… or maybe you just bought a “character-building experience.”

Inspections:
✔ Keep buyers informed
✔ Protect your finances
✔ Create negotiating power
✔ Build confidence and transparency

I promise:
The $350-$1,000 inspection fee hurts way less than the $8,000 surprise repair later on.

🎯 Bottom Line

Homes in North Carolina are typically as-is, but the due diligence period is your safety net.

Use it.

Ask questions.

Lean on your real estate agent (🙋‍♀️ hi, that’s me).

And don’t skip the inspections... they are not the problem.
They’re the peace of mind.