I'd like to share with you a situation in Kansas City Real Estate where we did Inspections first, then did Contract negotiations.
You're going to this: "this broad is nuts..." well, not hardly. Someone told me they do this in California all the time.
Granted this will not work in every situation, but it's working in this one.
One of my clients had their home on the market for 45 days and had just taken a healthy reduction.
Right after the reduction (within 2 days) here comes along Mr. Buyer. (that's good right?)
Through conversations with Mr. Buyer's representative, I discovered that Mr. Buyer had backed out on his last three offers on houses after the inspections. (that's not good right?)
With some serious consideration and discussion with my seller, given the recent price reduction and the buyers history for backing out after inspections we proposed the following:
Allow the buyers to have the property inspected without a contract while it remains on the market. (Now I would seriously consider the condition of the home, if it's in GOOD condition and nothing major wrong this should work)
Yes, the buyers will be out the money for the inspection if they weren't pleased with the outcome - but - they would have been out the inspection $$$ anyway if they weren't satisfied with the outcome.
After the inspection you negotiate the contract. When you get to an agreement... you should have a solid contract, no waiting for the results on inspections.
Think this broad is nuts?

Fran White, REALTOR®
Reece and Nichols Residential
816-682-3897
www.kansascity-realestate.net
www.franwhite.reeceandnichols.com

That's a good approach another one is to do a pre-listing inspection. I know it can be a tough sell but it's getting more popular in this neck of the woods. One way I do pre-listing inspection is to have my costs paid for up front usually $75.00 with the balance due when the home sells. I feel this way it helps the seller be more comfortable with have a pre-listing inspection done. Instead of waiting for a surprise.
Shawn Martin
Maartin Home Inspection Services
www.martininspect.com