The General Home Inspection

A licensed home inspector reviews the property from top to bottom, including:

  • Roof and attic
  • Foundation and structure
  • Electrical systems
  • Plumbing and drains
  • Heating and cooling systems
  • Kitchen and appliances
  • Interior and exterior condition
  • Garage and mechanicals
  • Safety concerns

Afterward, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the inspector’s findings, photos, and recommended repairs or evaluations.

Specialized Inspections

Depending on the home’s age, condition, or location, additional inspections may be recommended.

Radon Testing

Measures radon levels—a naturally occurring gas that can be hazardous if elevated.

Sewer Scope

A camera inspection of the sewer line to identify blockages, breaks, or tree root intrusion.

Highly recommended for older homes common throughout Detroit and the inner suburbs.

Chimney Inspection

Evaluates flues, liners, and overall chimney integrity.

Lead-Based Paint Testing

Recommended for homes built before 1978, especially if chipping paint is present.

Mold or Moisture Evaluations

Useful if the inspector notes musty odors or signs of water intrusion.


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The WINNER Advantage

Our team approach means you’re never waiting on one person’s availability. We coordinate and attend inspections seamlessly, ensuring you always have support—no matter your schedule or the inspector’s.

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Understanding Your Inspection Report

Inspection reports often look long or overwhelming—this is normal. Inspectors document anything worth noting, even small or routine items.

We’ll help you sort findings into:

  • Major concerns (safety or structural issues)
  • Moderate concerns (repair or maintenance items)
  • Minor items (cosmetic or routine upkeep)

The goal is clarity, not perfection.

What Inspections Do Not Cover

Inspections are a visual, non-invasive assessment. They do not guarantee:

  • Code compliance
  • Future system performance
  • Underground or inaccessible issues
  • Environmental hazards beyond what’s tested
  • Insurance eligibility

This is why specialized inspectors (electrical, structural engineers, sewer contractors, etc.) may be recommended when needed.

Timeframes for Inspections

In Michigan, the inspection period typically ranges from 5–10 days, depending on what was negotiated in the offer.

During this time, buyers may:

  • Conduct inspections
  • Review findings
  • Request repairs or concessions
  • Walk away and retain earnest money (if allowed by the contract)

Faster timelines may be recommended in competitive markets.

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WINNER Tip

No home is perfect—even new construction. What matters is understanding the true condition and deciding whether the home still fits your goals.

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Negotiating After the Inspection

After reviewing the report, buyers may have several options:

1. Request Repairs

Ask the seller to address specific issues prior to closing.

2. Request a Seller Credit

Often simpler than repairs, especially for mechanical or structural items.

3. Accept the Home as-Is

If the issues are minor or expected.

4. Cancel the Purchase

If major problems arise and the inspection contingency allows it.

We’ll help you determine which approach makes sense based on the findings and the overall strength of your offer.

When a Second Opinion Helps

Not all findings are deal-breakers. Sometimes a second opinion provides clarity.

Examples include:

  • Structural concerns
  • Roof life expectancy questions
  • Furnace age or performance
  • Sewer line condition
  • Electrical panel issues

We maintain a network of trusted specialists for additional evaluations when needed.

Should You Ever Waive Inspections?

Waiving inspections is rare and not recommended in most cases. If you’re considering it to compete with other buyers, we’ll explain the risks and may suggest safer alternatives, like:

  • A shortened inspection window
  • An informational-only inspection
  • Pre-offer walk-through with your inspector (when allowed)

Your safety and financial protection come first.

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The WINNER Advantage

We negotiate inspection outcomes with clarity and strategy—balancing your protection with the need to keep the deal competitive and on track.

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Your Due Diligence Checklist

During the inspection period, you’ll also review:

  • Seller disclosures
  • Lead-based paint disclosures (for older homes)
  • Property tax history and expected uncapping
  • City requirements (C of O, point-of-sale inspections, repair escrows)
  • HOA or condo documents
  • Utility costs (when provided)

This information helps you understand both the condition of the home and your long-term costs.

After Inspections: What Comes Next

Once inspections and due diligence are complete, the next phase begins: finalizing your loan, appraisal, and preparing for closing.

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BUYER CONSULTATION

A dedicated one-on-one session to explore your homebuying goals and options. We’ll walk you through the full home-buying process from start to finish — including understanding your budget, identifying what you’re looking for, touring potential neighborhoods, and reviewing next steps. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or experienced investor, you’ll leave the consultation with a clear plan tailored to your timeline, priorities, and financing needs. This is where the journey begins — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.