Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Lakewood Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  November 21, 2022

What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Lakewood Ranch

A home inspection is the process of evaluating the condition of a home to determine its value, potential problems, and the quality of the property and current systems. Home inspections are conducted to provide an unbiased assessment of the condition of a property to help you make an informed decision about whether to purchase the property or not. They can be performed by a trained professional to ensure a home meets the minimum standards for safety and livability.

Whether you’re a buyer or seller, a home inspection is always a good idea for Lakewood Ranch real estate. Here’s what you can expect:

Buyers vs. Sellers


A home inspection’s purpose varies based on whether it is commissioned for a buyer or seller. For a seller, a home inspection can help you identify potential problems, such as leaks or structural issues, so you can make decisions about any necessary repairs or improvements before listing your home. A home inspection report helps sellers decide on renovations, and they can be prepared for any potential negotiations.

Home inspections are a way for home buyers to find out more information about the condition of a property before they purchase it. They are an essential part of the home-buying process, and if you are in the market to buy a home, it is crucial to request a home inspection as a contingency in your offer. A home inspection contingency allows buyers to make informed decisions about purchasing a home, provides room for price negotiations based on the inspection findings, and allows buyers to back out of an offer if they are not happy with inspection results.

The cost of a home inspection



The cost of a home inspection depends on the type of inspection performed, the inspector’s experience, the location, and the size of the home. A buyer or seller can expect to pay between $500 and $1500 for a basic home inspection, which includes an evaluation of the property’s interior and exterior to identify potential problems. Home inspectors with more experience and specialized training can perform additional inspections at a higher cost. Home inspections performed by a certified home inspector are considered a better value since these inspections meet minimum standards for safety and are performed by a professional who can provide additional information about property conditions. Homes for sale in Lakewood Ranch vary significantly in size and amenities and may need different professionals to assess areas like pools and other luxury features.

What is inspected during a home inspection?



During a home inspection, an inspector will evaluate the interior and exterior of the property to identify potential problems. A home inspector will review the systems and components of the home, such as the:

  • Roof
  • Foundation and structural features
  • Heating and AC systems
  • Smoke alarms
  • Security features
  • Floors, doors, and ceilings
  • Windows
  • Visible insulation
  • Plumbing
  • Attics and basements
  • Electrical systems and wiring
After a comprehensive inspection, the inspector will provide a report with their findings and recommendations, which helps buyers and sellers make decisions on how to move forward with the home. It is critical to remember that while an inspection is a complete overview of the home inside and out, there are always potential issues that cannot be detected, such as mold under the bathtub or poor insulation in the walls. For this reason, it is best to work with a certified and experienced home inspector that is thorough and detailed in their inspection and report.

What inspectors don’t inspect



A home inspection aims to identify potential problems in a home before listing or buying the house. A home inspector will thoroughly assess the interior and exterior of the property to identify potential problems. Still, it is essential to note what home inspectors don’t do. The first thing to understand is that a home inspection is not an appraisal and won’t be able to determine the market value of a home. Home inspectors will provide a report with their findings, but it is up to the buyer to conclude about the home’s value or seek a professional appraisal. Some buyers and sellers choose to have an appraisal performed, which will provide an additional set of information about the value of the home. Like many professions, home inspectors can be certified in different areas, and some can inspect fireplaces and chimneys while others will refer you to a specialist. Your home inspections mostly likely will not cover items such as:

  • Small appliances like microwaves
  • Landscaping
  • Locked areas – inspectors will note when they cannot gain access to an area
  • Wells or septic systems
  • Attached accessories, like solar panels
  • Contaminations or toxins in soil and water
  • Swimming pools
  • The ground beneath the home or geological issues
  • Fireplaces and chimney

Pass-or-fail and what to do next


Home inspections are not a pass-or-fail assessment. They investigate the structure and integrity of the interior and exterior to provide a comprehensive overview of the home’s health. It is up to buyers or sellers to determine what they can and cannot live with as they move forward in the process.

Once you receive the home inspection report, it is important to review the findings and determine what actions need to be taken. If the home inspection results were positive, this is an opportunity to make decisions based on the inspection findings, such as if you want to list the home at a higher price or if you want to make the necessary repairs or improvements before you list the home. If the home inspection results are negative, this is an opportunity to back out of an offer without losing too much money or spending additional money on repairs or improvements. It is also an opportunity to negotiate with the seller based on the inspection findings.

Whatever the results, if you decide you are happy with the home inspection report and feel comfortable moving forward as a buyer or seller, Judy Limekiller can help you take the next steps. Judy has lived in Sarasota for more than 20 years and is an expert in the local markets. Start your home search today or learn more about selling your Lakewood Ranch real estate.



Recent Blog Posts

Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Sarasota

Judy Limekiller  |  October 14, 2024

Many Sarasota restaurants are pet-friendly year-round.

How to Maintain Your House's Foundation

Judy Limekiller  |  October 7, 2024

Protecting the Structural Integrity of Your Home.

Top Real Estate Investment Areas in Sarasota

Judy Limekiller  |  October 7, 2024

Look to turn profits in these neighborhoods and niche markets.

Palmer Ranch Through the Seasons: Home Maintenance Tips

Judy Limekiller  |  September 9, 2024

Keep your home beautiful all year long.

Top Landscapers in Palmer Ranch to Improve Curb Appeal

Judy Limekiller  |  September 3, 2024

Companies that can turn your front yard into a florid landscape.

Weekend Trips from Palmer Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  September 2, 2024

Your starting point for fun Florida weekends.

Things To Do When Moving To A New State

September 2, 2024

Essential Steps to Ensure a Smooth Transition to Your New Home.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover? Beginner's Guide

Judy Limekiller  |  August 8, 2024

Understanding the Essentials for New Homeowners.

How to Renovate Your Backyard to Increase Home Value

Judy Limekiller  |  August 7, 2024

Transforming Outdoor Spaces for Maximum Return.

Smart Home Features Every Modern Homeowner Should Consider

Judy Limekiller  |  August 6, 2024

Integrating Technology for Convenience, Efficiency, and Security.

How to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal in One Weekend

Judy Limekiller  |  August 6, 2024

Transform Your Home's Exterior with Simple, Effective Updates.

Condo Upgrade Ideas

Judy Limekiller  |  July 21, 2024

Transforming Your Space with Stylish and Functional Enhancements.

Top Factors that Influence Home Resale Value

Judy Limekiller  |  July 21, 2024

Understanding Key Elements that Enhance Property Marketability.

Key Features to Look for When Hunting for a Family Home

Judy Limekiller  |  July 1, 2024

Use foresight when narrowing your options for buying a family home.

8 Neighborhood Amenities That Increase Home Value

Judy Limekiller  |  June 19, 2024

Seek these local features when shopping for homes in Sarasota.

Luxury Home Design Trends for 2024

Judy Limekiller  |  June 13, 2024

Embracing Innovation and Sustainability in High-End Living Spaces.

How to Set the Right Price for Your Home in Today's Market

Judy Limekiller  |  June 1, 2024

Mastering Market Analysis and Pricing Strategies to Maximize Your Home's Value.

Why Summer is the Best Time to Buy a Home in Sarasota, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  May 31, 2024

Uncover the Advantages of the Sarasota Real Estate Market During the Sunny Season.

A Guide to Homeowners Insurance in Florida

Judy Limekiller  |  May 31, 2024

How to approach homeowners insurance and understand its aspects.

A Guide to Palmer Ranch, FL Parks

Judy Limekiller  |  May 27, 2024

Exploring Palmer Ranch's Green Spaces.

Exploring Assisted Living in Palmer Ranch: What Families Need to Know in 2024

Judy Limekiller  |  May 27, 2024

Choose the best assisted living facility based on these criteria.

Palmer Ranch Housing Trends: Key Insights for Savvy Investors in 2024

Judy Limekiller  |  May 27, 2024

Be in the know as you approach homebuying in Palmer Ranch.

The Top Attractions in Palmer Ranch, FL, For Locals or Tourists

Judy Limekiller  |  May 27, 2024

Discover the Best Things to Do in Palmer Ranch.

The Ultimate Guide to Home Inspection Before Buying

Judy Limekiller  |  May 22, 2024

Mastering the Process: Navigating Home Inspections with Confidence.

Everything You Need to Know About Getting Your Home Inspected Before Selling

Judy Limekiller  |  May 13, 2024

Preparing for a Smooth Sale with a Pre-Listing Home Inspection.

Things to Do in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  May 13, 2024

Find your niche in this comfortable South Florida community.

10 Best Places to Shop in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  May 7, 2024

Explore these excellent retail destinations in the Sarasota area.

Discover Hiking Destinations in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  May 7, 2024

Adventure Awaits on Palmer Ranch’s Trails.

The 7 Best Golf Courses in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  May 7, 2024

Tee Off in Style in Palmer Ranch.

Architectural Landmarks in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  April 16, 2024

A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity.

Living in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  April 16, 2024

A Haven of Recreation, Music, and Serenity.

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  April 2, 2024

Your Comprehensive Guide to Moving to Palmer Ranch, FL.

Exploring the 12 Best Restaurants in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  April 2, 2024

Showcasing Palmer Ranch’s Culinary Excellence.

Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House

Judy Limekiller  |  March 20, 2024

Capturing the sunshine in your sale.

Buying a Home in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  March 20, 2024

A guide to your dream home.

Flipping Houses in Palmer Ranch, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  March 20, 2024

The path to profitable real estate ventures.

Navigating Paradise: A Guide to Boating in Pelican Cove, FL

Judy Limekiller  |  February 28, 2024

Live the life aquatic and discover one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.

5 Best Places to Shop Near Pelican Cove

Judy Limekiller  |  January 19, 2024

Start your retail excursion!

5 Best Restaurants Near Pelican Cove

Judy Limekiller  |  January 18, 2024

Take a culinary journey.

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Pelican Cove

Judy Limekiller  |  January 18, 2024

Prepare for a move to this incredible community.

Tips for Moving with Pets

Judy Limekiller  |  November 21, 2023

Paws and packing: A comprehensive guide to stress-free moves with pets.

Buying a Home in Pelican Cove

Judy Limekiller  |  November 21, 2023

Finding your own piece of paradise.

Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House in Pelican Cove

Judy Limekiller  |  November 21, 2023

An expert guide to a streamlined, top-dollar sale.

6 Reasons to Relocate to Palmer Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  July 31, 2023

Why residents love this top-ranking master-planned community.

4 Qualities of a Great Sarasota Realtor

Judy Limekiller  |  July 31, 2023

What you need to know before you hire an agent to represent you.

20 Things to Do in Your First Week in Downtown Sarasota

Judy Limekiller  |  May 21, 2023

Fun to be had for all ages in Downtown Sarasota!

Confessions of a First-Time Home Buyer in Lakewood Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  May 21, 2023

Check out these lessons learned from a previous buyer.

How to Get Started in Buying Your First Home in Palmer Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  December 20, 2022

Discover what makes this unique community one of the best places to call home on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

What to Expect from a Home Inspection in Lakewood Ranch

Judy Limekiller  |  November 21, 2022

Start your buying or selling experience off right with a home inspection.

What to Know Before Selling a Sarasota Home

Judy Limekiller  |  October 16, 2022

If you’re in the market to sell your Sarasota home, here are eight things to know before you begin.

Real Estate Trends

Judy Limekiller  |  August 15, 2022

Even with a downturn in the real estate market looming on the horizon, home sales are still headed for another record year.

Choosing the Right Home

Judy Limekiller  |  August 15, 2022

Looking at your debt-to-income ratio is one of the ways that creditors establish how qualified you are for a mortgage loan.

Top 4 Deal Killers for Homebuyers

Judy Limekiller  |  August 15, 2022

What if something goes wrong and you end up not spending the rest of your life with this stack of brick and mortar you're lusting after?

Work With Judy

Whether she is guiding a buyer through the purchase of their first home or helping out-of-town clients sell their family condo, Judy brings exceptional customer service to every transaction.