Inspection & appraisal, demystified

After your offer is accepted, two checks happen. People mix them up, but they answer different questions.

The inspection answers "What condition is this home in?" A licensed inspector walks the property and flags issues — roof, HVAC, plumbing, foundation. It's for you. Findings can let you renegotiate, ask for repairs, or walk away if it's serious.

The appraisal answers "Is this home worth what I'm paying?" An independent appraiser, ordered by your lender, estimates the home's market value. It protects the lender — they won't hand over more than the home is worth. If it appraises low, you renegotiate or cover the gap.

Two different people, two different jobs, both protecting you from a bad deal.

Next: KevaAI keeps a checklist of these milestones so nothing slips between offer and closing.