Sequim Home Inspection FAQ for Buyers & Retirees

By Chuck Marunde, J.D. — Exclusive Buyer’s Agent | iRealty Virtual Brokers

🏡 What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a thorough examination of the interior and Exterior of a home a buyer has contracted to purchase from a seller. The inspection is normally conducted by a certified home inspector trained to recognize potential issues of concern. A home inspector will examine the home for structural integrity, the condition of key components, such as the foundation, roofing, siding, and he'll test all appliances, outlets, and the HVAC system. A home inspector will also go through the crawlspace, if there is one, and look for moisture, standing water, or indicia of pest infestation. An inspector will also crawl through the attic, if there is one, and again look for signs of moisture as well as pests. They will take photos with a digital camera to include in their report.

🏡 Is a home inspection important?

A home inspection during the due diligence period of a pending purchase is very important, and many attorneys argue it is the most important of several inspections a buyer may conduct. In Washington state a buyer who has a home inspection addendum as part of his agreement with the seller, will have a time period within which to have the home inspected by a professional and there will be a deadline, like 10 days or 14 days from mutual acceptance, whatever the parties agree on.

🏡 What if the home inspection report reveals a major problem?

If there is a serious defect or major repair issue that is revealed in the home inspection report, the buyer has the right to 1.) terminate the purchase immediately, 2.) ask the seller to repair the problem, 3.) ask the seller for a credit against the purchase price, or 4.) waive the contingency and proceed to closing.

⚠️ What are the biggest home inspection pitfalls buyers face in Sequim?

• Working with the listing agent (dual agency risks)
• Assuming your Realtor knows how to protect you when he may not have the knowledge or experience
• Missing the response deadline
• Offending the seller and risking the transaction over minor repairs
• Not handling follow-up inspections properly — with specialized experts
• Not using the correct legal documents or language

🔍 Where can I learn more about my home inspection rights before I buy?

• Sequim Home Inspection Articles — 2,000+ buyer-focused articles
• Sequim Home Inspection Videos — home inspection terms, due diligence, terminations
• Sequim Real Estate Books — real estate books written for buyers and retirees

📽️ Are there helpful videos about retiring and buying in Sequim?

• Living in Sequim is Wonderful
• Buyer Traps to Avoid
• Sequim Real Estate for Retirees

💼 Who is the most experienced exclusive buyer's agent in Sequim?

Chuck Marunde, J.D. — 40+ years in real estate, 20 as a real estate attorney, and author of over 2,000 articles for Sequim buyers. Owner of iRealty Virtual Brokers, Chuck represents buyers only — never sellers.

🛋️ Are there flat-fee MLS services in Sequim?

Yes. Options include Best Choice Flat Fee, MLS4Owners, and Congress Realty. These offer MLS access without full commission costs. That said, flat-fee listings often lack disclosures and buyer protections — use a skilled buyer's agent to review everything. Washington State Flat Fee Listing Service, which includes Sequim, WA, is found at WA State Flat Fee Listing Service.