What to Expect from a Home Inspection as a Florida Seller

So, you’ve accepted an offer—great! Next up: the buyer’s home inspection.

For many Florida sellers, this step creates anxiety. Will something unexpected show up? Will the buyer walk away?

Here’s the truth: most inspection issues are solvable. The key is to understand the process and be prepared.

Let’s walk through what to expect—and how to make it as smooth as possible.

🔍 What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a non-invasive examination of the property by a licensed professional hired by the buyer.

The inspector evaluates:

• Roof, attic, insulation
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• HVAC performance
• Structural components
• Appliances, water heater, and drainage
• Windows, doors, and visible mold or pests

The goal is to identify issues that may affect function, safety, or value.

🧾 What Happens During the Inspection?

• The buyer and inspector tour the home (often with the buyer’s agent present)
• You, the seller, usually leave the property during this time
• The process takes 2–3 hours on average
• A full report is delivered to the buyer, typically within 24–48 hours

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t leave pets loose, and make sure access to attic, garage, HVAC, and water heater is clear.

⚠️ What Are Common Inspection Issues in Florida?

• Roof age or condition (especially due to hurricane exposure)
• HVAC performance in Florida heat
• Electrical panel or outdated wiring
• Plumbing leaks or cast iron piping
• Termite or wood-destroying organism (WDO) evidence
• Drainage or grading issues from heavy rains

Most of these don’t kill deals—but they may trigger repair requests or renegotiation.

🔧 What If Problems Are Found?

The buyer may:

• Accept the home as-is
• Request specific repairs
• Ask for a credit at closing
• Walk away (within inspection period, if contract allows)

As the seller, you can:

• Agree to fix the items
• Offer a repair credit
• Negotiate repairs or stand firm, depending on your leverage

Michael Renick will help you respond strategically based on the terms of your contract and buyer motivation.

🧼 How to Prepare for a Smoother Inspection

• Handle obvious repairs before listing (leaky faucets, broken outlets)
• Service HVAC in advance and replace filters
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Test smoke detectors and light bulbs
• Make sure all utilities are on and systems are accessible

This creates a good impression and prevents small issues from snowballing into big red flags.

✅ Final Thoughts

Inspections aren’t pass/fail—they’re just part of the process.

The more proactive and transparent you are, the easier it will be to get through the inspection and move confidently toward closing.

📰 Related Post: Want to understand the strategy behind your selling options? Check out our companion blog: The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Florida Home As-Is.

📣 Let’s Talk Strategy

Want a clear breakdown of your numbers and a smarter way to sell? Let’s connect.

• 📞 Call Mike: 941.400.8735
• 📍 Explore our blog series: The Florida Life
• 🌐 Learn how we operate and why it matters: TeamRenick.com
• 🔎 Start your property search: Search.TeamRenick.com