From the field

Practical advice on
buying a home.

Plain-spoken posts on home inspections, San Diego real estate, and what to know before you sign.

What to expect at your first home inspection

Most buyers have never seen an inspection before. Here's a plain-language walk-through of exactly what happens, from the moment the inspector arrives to the report in your inbox.

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How to read your inspection report

You just received a 40-page PDF. Here's how to tell what's urgent, what's cosmetic, what's normal for the age of the house, and what's actually worth bringing back to the sellers.

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Do you really need a sewer scope?

It's a $195 add-on most buyers skip. Here's what a camera scope actually finds, why San Diego's older homes are particularly vulnerable, and when it's genuinely optional.

Coming soon
Should you waive your inspection contingency?

In a competitive San Diego market, buyers feel pressure to drop contingencies. Here's what you're actually giving up, and when it might be acceptable.