Inspection and Title

Once you are under contract on a home, you will need to work with a title company and a home inspector. Learn more about each process, what you can expect, and why it matters.

Before finalizing the sale of the home, you will have a period of time — typically referred to and stipulated in contracts as the due diligence period — to identify any areas of concern with the home. Once you have reviewed the report and are comfortable with any of the items listed, you can close on your home with greater peace of mind!

Home Inspection

The buyer will be responsible for hiring an inspector. In preparation for the inspection, you may request a disclosure statement from the sellers beforehand that will reveal any improvements done to the property, such as renovations and upgrades, for your inspector to review.

You and your agent can meet with the inspector and walk through the home together. The inspector will work their way through a checklist, visually assessing the condition of the home. This process usually takes a couple of hours, so plan your schedule for that day accordingly — and don’t be afraid to ask the inspector questions! If you noticed anything that concerned you during previous walkthroughs of the home, ask for clarification. Once the inspector is finished, they will create a report detailing issues the inspector found, as well as information on what may need to be maintained or replaced in the future.

Title vs. Deed

It’s important to note the distinction between Title and Deed. A Title acts as proof of ownership and indicates you have the right to use the property, but it is not a physical document. A Deed is the legal document used as a means of transferring ownership from one party to another. Before you close on your home, both parties will need to sign this document.

Title Company and Title Search

A title company acts as a liaison to legally transfer a property title from one party to another. After you hire a title company, they will conduct a title search on the property and issue a report that verifies that the title is valid and can be legally sold by the seller.

They can also issue title insurance to protect the buyer and the lender should any problems with the property be revealed during the title search. Title insurance may help provide protection even after the sale is complete in the event that title problems are discovered in the future.

Now that you’ve conducted your research and are satisfied with the property, you can close on your new home with more confidence. Your title company will oversee your closing and will work with both the buyer and the seller to distribute money and transfer the title. Welcome home!

Other Resources in Buyer Resources

Buyer's Guide
Mortgage Considerations

Property Search

Areas We Cover

Show More...