The repair was “done,” but the furnace cabinet was open and a part sat on the door. That moment kicked off a blunt breakdown of how buyers can protect themselves from empty promises, fake receipts, and cosmetic fixes that fail the first cold snap. We share real stories from the field—vents “extended” with gutter downspout, window trim rebuilt with silicone, and invoices from contractors who don’t exist—and turn them into a simple, repeatable playbook for getting repairs you can trust.
We start with readiness and scope: why utilities must be on, access guaranteed, and the repair list written with clear materials and standards. Then we focus on control—why you should choose the contractor, how to verify licenses on state sites, and what real documentation looks like, from itemized invoices to serial-number photos. For bigger risks like electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and sewer lines, we explain when to require permits and how to use specialist testing such as sewer scoping to avoid expensive surprises after move-in.
If a seller insists on coordinating work, we explain the escrow approach: set a fair amount based on your bids, hold funds through closing, and hire your pro afterward so quality comes first. We also cover when a re-inspection is worth the fee, how to make that visit efficient, and why inspectors and appraisers are the only parties without a financial stake in the deal closing—meaning they’re the ones you want telling you the hard truths. Looking for a smarter path to closing day? Press play, take notes, and use this checklist to keep your home, your money, and your sanity intact. If you find value, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others buy with confidence.
To learn more about Habitation Investigation, the Three-time Winner of the Best Home Inspection Company in the Midwest Plus the Winner of Consumer Choice Award for Columbus Ohio visit Home Inspection Columbus Ohio - Habitation Investigation (homeinspectionsinohio.com)
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