Buying a home in Tennessee is a big step, and with so many moving parts, it’s normal to feel unsure about certain parts of the process. One of the most important? The home inspection.

Your real estate agent is there to guide you, but knowing the right questions to ask can help you feel more in control. Below are five smart home inspection questions to ask your agent, and how to interpret the answers to make informed decisions.

1. “Do I really need a home inspection?”

What to listen for:

If your agent says “No” or “Only if you’re worried”, that’s a red flag. A solid agent will tell you:

“Absolutely. A home inspection protects you by identifying issues you can’t see, like electrical problems, roof damage, or foundation concerns. It’s not about passing or failing, it’s about knowing what you’re buying.”

Why it matters:
Even homes that look perfect can hide expensive surprises. Skipping an inspection could cost you thousands later on.

2. “What exactly does the inspection cover?”

What to listen for:

Your agent should be able to explain the basics or connect you with a local inspector who can. A good answer sounds like:

“It covers the home’s structure, systems, roof, crawlspace, plumbing, and more. In Tennessee, inspectors also watch for moisture issues, termite activity, and even radon in certain areas.”

Why it matters:
Knowing what’s covered (and what’s not) helps you ask smarter follow-up questions and interpret the final report more clearly.

3. “What if the inspector finds something wrong?”

What to listen for:

There’s no such thing as a “perfect” home, and your agent should be honest about that. Look for a response like:

“That’s completely normal. The report helps you understand what’s urgent and what’s routine maintenance. You may be able to negotiate repairs or a credit. It doesn’t mean the deal is dead.”

Why it matters:
An experienced agent won’t panic and won’t let you panic either. Instead, they’ll guide you on how to use the inspection results to your advantage.

4. “Should I attend the inspection?”

What to listen for:

The right agent encourages your involvement, not avoids it. They might say:

“Yes! Arriving at the end of the inspection period is a great chance to ask questions. You’ll get more insight than just reading the report later.”

DILIGENT recommends being present for the overview, a moment at the end of the inspection where the inspector gives you some information they feel is important, all before you get your hands on the whole report. 

Why it matters:
Being there lets you see issues firsthand, understand how systems work, and build confidence in your decision.

5. “Do you have an inspector you recommend?”

What to listen for:

A good agent might offer a few trusted names, but they should also remind you that the choice is yours. A helpful answer:

“Yes, I work with a few excellent local inspectors. They’re thorough, explain things clearly, and know the unique challenges of Middle Tennessee homes. But you’re welcome to choose anyone you feel comfortable with.”

What to watch for:
If they recommend a national chain or a rushed, low-cost option without local knowledge, ask more questions. Local inspectors understand things like crawlspace moisture, radon zones, and termite history better than anyone else.

Final Takeaway: Smart Questions Lead to Smart Decisions

Your agent is a key part of your home-buying team, so you should feel empowered to ask questions, especially when it comes to your inspection. The answers you get can tell you a lot, not just about the house, but about the people helping you buy it.

At DILIGENT, we partner with buyers across Middle Tennessee to deliver home inspections that are clear, honest, and designed to give you peace of mind. From radon testing and termite letters to crawlspace evaluations, we help uncover what’s below the surface, so you can move forward with confidence.

Reach out today or ask your agent about scheduling with DILIGENT, Middle Tennessee’s trusted inspection partner.