One of the most valuable and rewarding parts of my job is what I call the Inspection Discovery Discussion. This is a scheduled meeting where I review the findings of a home inspection with the client. It’s an opportunity for homeowners or buyers to ask questions, get clarity on areas of concern, and ensure they fully understand what was found during the inspection.
Home inspection reports can be complicated to read and understand. The pictures can be a bit wonky and sometimes take a minute to understand what is happening. While I ALWAYS strive to write easy to understand DDID (Describe, Discovery, Implication, Direction) statements and markup most of my pictures with arrows or circles to call attention to the discovery, there are times when a bit of extra explanation and context is needed. That’s why the Inspection Discovery Discussion has become one of my favorite parts of the inspection process.
The meeting is usually scheduled shortly after the inspection is completed. During this time, I go over the key findings of the report, highlight areas that may require further attention, and provide my professional recommendations. One of the most important aspects of this discussion is that it gives the client the chance to ask questions directly. Maybe a certain issue isn’t clear, or they’re wondering how significant a particular finding really is. This is the perfect moment to dive deeper into those details. My goal is to make sure they leave the discussion feeling confident in their understanding, whether they’re planning to make repairs, negotiate with the seller, or simply stay informed about the condition of the property.
One of the most helpful ways I conduct this discussion is by using what I call the 360 Degree Inspection Immersion Experience. This is a truly innovative approach that allows clients to virtually tour the property while I explain each discovery. Using the latest 360 camera technology, I tag the discoveries in the home with photos, descriptions of the discoveries, and detailed explanations of what was found. The client can explore the property at their own pace, revisiting areas they are concerned about and get a clearer idea of the issues at hand. It’s an experience that adds a level of engagement and clarity that a standard report alone can’t provide. I love it.
Why do I love this part of the inspection process the most? Simply put, it’s because it’s all about helping people understand. The home inspection report can sometimes feel like a pile of information, but when I’m able to walk a client through it step by step, answering their questions and showing them exactly where issues exist, it turns that information into something meaningful. It’s rewarding to watch my clients’ worries turn into understanding, especially when they leave the discussion feeling empowered to make informed decisions about their next steps.
This approach has helped several clients in the past. One memorable instance was a family purchasing their first home. They were concerned about some foundation cracks noted in the inspection report. By walking them through the 360 Degree Inspection Immersion Experience and showing them exactly where the cracks were, how deep they were, and whether they were a sign of a major issue or something to monitor, we were able to put their minds at ease. They were able to proceed with confidence, knowing exactly what needed attention, and what could be addressed down the road.
The Inspection Discovery Discussion is not just a review of a report, it’s a vital opportunity for clients to gain clarity, ask questions, and leave with a deeper understanding of their new property. Whether it’s done in person or through the immersive virtual experience, it’s a process that helps clients feel informed, confident, and ready to make the best decisions for themselves. For me, it’s one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. After all, it’s not just about inspecting a house – it’s about ensuring my clients feel secure and empowered in their homebuying journey.
Glenn J Gleason Jr
Owner, 4D Inspections
