Don’t Overlook the Fine Print: Why Deadlines Matter in Home Buying

Don’t Overlook the Fine Print: Why Deadlines Matter in Home Buying

When buyers start their journey, most of the focus naturally goes to the big questions: What’s the price? Does the home check my boxes? But there’s another layer that can make or break your purchase — the fine print in your contract.

One of the most important details? Inspection and termination deadlines.

Once your offer is accepted, the clock starts ticking — and often, that window is shorter than you’d expect. If you miss those deadlines, you could risk losing your earnest money deposit. 💸

A Real-Life Example

Imagine this: You’ve found your dream home and your offer is accepted. The inspection deadline is set for 10 days. Life gets busy — work, kids, unexpected events — and suddenly it’s day 11 before you schedule the inspection. The results come back showing major issues with the roof, but by then your termination window has already expired. Now, you’re stuck either moving forward with a home that needs costly repairs or losing your earnest money if you back out.

That’s a stressful spot no buyer wants to be in.

How to Stay Protected

✔️ Know your dates — mark them on your calendar the moment your contract is signed.
✔️ Ask questions — your agent should guide you, but it’s always smart to understand the terms yourself.
✔️ Stay proactive — schedule your inspections early so you’re not scrambling.

It may not be the most glamorous part of buying a home, but protecting your investment comes down to the details. With the right guidance and a clear plan, you’ll move through the process with confidence.

👉 Thinking of buying soon? I’d love to walk you through the process step by step — no guesswork, no surprises. Let’s connect!