Why Every Buyer Needs a Buyer’s Inspection Before Closing

Buying a home is a big deal—one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. You want to be confident in what you’re buying, and that’s exactly what a buyer’s inspection helps with. At Drew Inspection Service, we provide thorough home inspections across South Dakota to help you understand the condition of the home before you close.

What Is a Buyer’s Inspection?

A Buyer’s Inspection happens after your offer is accepted and before you close on the home. It gives you a full picture of the property’s condition—what’s working, what needs fixing, and what could become a problem later. We don’t just look at what’s visible on the surface—we take a close look at all the major systems and structure so you know exactly what you’re walking into.

What We Inspect

We inspect every major part of the home that we can safely access. That includes:

• Roof and gutters
• Foundation and visible structure
• Siding, windows, and doors
• Heating and cooling systems (HVAC)
• Plumbing system and fixtures
• Electrical panel, outlets, and light fixtures
• Insulation and ventilation
• Walls, ceilings, floors, stairs
• Attics and crawlspaces
• Garages, porches, and decks
• Built-in kitchen appliances (if part of the sale)
• We also keep an eye out for signs of leaks, poor drainage, pest activity, or anything else that could turn into a costly repair later.

What You’ll Get After the Inspection

Once we’ve gone through everything, you’ll get a full inspection report—usually within 24 hours. It includes photos, notes, and clear explanations of anything we found. We’ll flag any issues that need immediate attention, as well as things to monitor or maintain over time. This report is easy to understand and easy to share with your real estate agent or the seller. You can use it to ask for repairs, negotiate a better price, or just plan for what to fix after you move in.

Local Experience That Makes a Difference

South Dakota homes face tough conditions—cold winters, storms, and big temperature swings. We understand the problems that come with our local climate and know what to watch for, whether you’re buying in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Brookings, or a small town nearby. We’ve inspected homes all over the state and bring that hands-on experience to every inspection we do.

You’re Welcome to Attend

We encourage buyers to attend the inspection if they can. Walking through the home with us is a great way to get familiar with it, ask questions, and see things up close. If you can’t make it, we’ll still make sure you understand the report and are available to answer any questions afterward.

Why It Matters

Even homes that look great on the surface can have hidden issues. A buyer’s inspection helps you avoid surprises and gives you confidence moving forward. This is your chance to make sure the home is safe, solid, and worth what you’re paying for it. Buying a home without an inspection is a gamble. With one, you can move forward with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should I schedule the inspection?
  Right after your offer is accepted—usually within your due diligence period. That gives you enough time to review the report and make any decisions before closing.
• Can I come to the inspection?
  Yes, and we recommend it. You’ll see everything firsthand and have a chance to ask questions as we go.
• What happens if you find issues?
  Most homes have a few. Your report will explain everything clearly. You and your agent can decide whether to ask for repairs, request credits, or accept the home as-is.
• Do I still need an inspection on a new build?
  Yes. Even new homes can have construction errors or missed details. It’s smart to have a third-party inspector take a look before you move in.