Understanding the Inspection Period in Florida: What Buyers Really Need to Know

Understanding the Inspection Period in Florida: What Buyers Really Need to Know

So, you’ve found a home in Orlando, made an offer, and it’s been accepted—yay! But now your agent tells you the “inspection period” has started, and you’re thinking… what exactly does that mean?

Let’s take the mystery out of this super important part of the Florida real estate contract—so you can move forward with confidence.

🕵️‍♀️ What Is the Inspection Period, Really?

In Florida, once your offer is accepted and you’re under contract, you typically have a set number of days (usually 7 to 15) to fully inspect the property and decide if you want to move forward.

This time is often called the “inspection period” or “due diligence period.” Think of it as your “get to know the house” phase—kind of like dating before you commit long-term.

🔍 What Can You Do During This Time?

This is your opportunity to:

• Hire a licensed home inspector

• Bring in specialists (roof, plumbing, electrical, mold, etc.)

• Ask lots of questions

• Review disclosures, permits, or HOA rules

• Back out if the home isn’t the right fit—without losing your deposit

Yes, you read that right. You can cancel during this period for any reason or no reason at all. That’s why this window is such a big deal for buyers.

🛠️ What If the Inspection Reveals Problems?

It’s rare to find a perfect home (even new construction has quirks), so don’t panic if the inspector finds issues. This is where I help you decide what’s normal and what’s worth addressing.

You have a few options:

• Move forward as-is

• Cancel the contract and get your deposit back

• Negotiate repairs or credits (depending on the contract terms)

In most cases, Florida buyers use the AS IS Residential Contract, which means the seller isn’t obligated to fix anything—but that doesn’t mean we can’t ask or negotiate based on what comes up.

⏳ How Long Is the Inspection Period?

Most contracts give you 7–15 calendar days (negotiated when your offer is made). That clock starts ticking the day after your contract is signed by both parties.

And trust me—we’ll move fast to book inspections, review reports, and make any decisions well before your deadline.

🤝 My Role as Your Agent

During the inspection period, I’m your boots-on-the-ground guide. I’ll help:

• Coordinate inspectors

• Interpret the reports in plain English

• Recommend next steps

• Protect your timeline so you don’t miss your window to cancel (if needed)

This part of the process can feel a little nerve-wracking—but it doesn’t have to. With the right team, it’s empowering.

💬 Final Thoughts

The inspection period isn’t just about finding what’s wrong—it’s about making sure the home is right for you.

It’s one of the few parts of the process where you hold the power, and I make sure you use it well.

Thinking about buying but nervous about inspections, surprises, or “what ifs”? Let’s talk through it. I’ll send you a copy of my Buyer’s Roadmap with an entire section dedicated to what happens during the inspection period (and what most buyers wish they knew sooner).

📩 Reach out anytime—it’s what I’m here for.