Buyer Attendance
By Ian Dolby, Certified Master Inspector and owner of Smart Choice Inspection Company
Quick Answer
Whenever possible, yes. A buyer should attend at least part of the home inspection. Ian generally recommends joining toward the end, after he has inspected the major systems and developed an understanding of the house as a whole. If the buyer cannot attend, the same inspection process still applies.
Why Join Toward the End
A detailed inspection requires concentration. An observation found early may take on greater or lesser importance after the rest of the property is evaluated. Meeting near the end lets the buyer see important conditions, ask questions, and discuss the complete picture without distracting from the inspection process.
The Inspection Report Can Look Worse Than the House
A report stacks defects, deferred maintenance, aging components, safety improvements, and other observations one after another. That can feel overwhelming. Every house has things. If the house you live in now were inspected, it would probably produce a meaningful list too. Many findings are ordinary, manageable parts of homeownership.
The useful question is not “How many things did the inspector find?” It is “What do these findings tell me about the overall condition of the home?”
If Something Significant Is Found
If the inspection primarily identifies ordinary defects and deferred maintenance, Ian generally publishes the same-day report so the client can review it before the phone discussion. If a substantial concern is found, he contacts the client sooner. A significant finding does not automatically make a house bad; it means the buyer should understand the condition clearly.
Condition Can Change the Conversation
The inspector establishes condition. The agent understands the transaction. The buyer makes the decision. Smart Choice does not determine market value, price residential defects, or decide whether a finding should change the transaction.
When the Buyer Cannot Attend
Smart Choice regularly works with out-of-state buyers, overseas clients, people with work or calendar conflicts, and experienced buyers comfortable proceeding remotely. The inspection does not become lesser because the client is absent. The report is published electronically the same day, followed by a phone discussion. Video may be used when useful and the connection permits, but it is rarely necessary.
The Goal Is Understanding
A buyer does not need to become a home inspector. They need a clear understanding of the property they are considering. Once the report arrives, use the after-inspection resource to put the findings into perspective and plan next steps.
About Ian Dolby
Ian Dolby is the owner of Smart Choice Inspection Company, a Certified Master Inspector, and an Indiana licensed home inspector, License #02200088. He serves residential clients throughout Southwest Michigan and Northwestern Indiana. Learn more about Ian Dolby and his professional background.
Schedule a Home Inspection
To learn more about Smart Choice Inspection Company or schedule a residential home inspection, visit the residential inspection service page or call or text 269-800-0111.
