First Time Buyers in Clintonville - Part 3: What Really Happens on Inspection Day?
Doing It Right for First-Time Buyers
A quick note before we begin: These events took place a few months ago, but as with every story in this series, I waited until after closing to share them so we could protect my buyers’ position during negotiations.
This 1920s Clintonville bungalow was filled with charming details — the kind that make you fall in love at first sight. But my first-time buyers knew that charm alone isn’t enough, and their thorough inspection helped ensure the home was as sound as it was beautiful.
The Excitement of Being in Contract
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of being in contract on your very first home—especially when it’s the home you’ve been dreaming of since long before you moved back to Columbus. That’s exactly what my buyers experienced: a wonderful couple, first-time homebuyers, recently relocated, and under contract on a classic 1920s craftsman bungalow in the heart of Clintonville.
From the moment they saw the wide front porch, charming details, and light-filled rooms, they were smitten. The spacious bedrooms, generous closets (a rare find in older homes!), and huge updated windows that framed views of the tall trees in the backyard sealed the deal. But as with many homes built a century ago, beauty and charm can come with a few question marks—and that’s where Inspection Day comes in.
Why a Thorough Inspection Matters
We knew going in that the home had a few red flags - it was built in 1921, after all! - so we negotiated a thorough inspection and remedy period in the contract. When the day arrived, we brought in a full team of experts to help my clients make the most informed decision possible.
Here’s who we had on site:
A licensed home inspector to conduct a full top-to-bottom evaluation of the house, checking for any hidden issues
A wood-destroying insect inspection—critical for homes of this age
A radon test to check for harmful gas levels, especially important in Central Ohio
A structural engineer to evaluate the foundation and detached garage, both of which showed signs that warranted a closer look
A licensed electrician to assess the wiring, particularly since many homes in this area still have knob-and-tube systems, which can pose a fire hazard
A trusted general contractor to provide estimates on the necessary work, giving my clients clarity on both costs and timelines
Protecting Clients Over “Closing the Deal”
Some agents might hesitate to go this far—worried about scaring off buyers or jeopardizing the deal. But for me, it’s never about just getting to the closing table. It’s about protecting my clients, helping them make smart, well-informed decisions, and ensuring the home they buy is not only full of charm, but also safe, sound, and a solid investment for their future.
Picture-perfect from the curb: this classic Clintonville craftsman stole hearts with its wide front porch, vintage color palette, and sun-filled windows. But these savvy first-time buyers knew that sometimes beauty is only skin-deep—so they wisely brought in a full team of inspectors to make sure the charm went more than just curb-deep.
Turning Inspection Day Into a Smart Step Forward
Buying your first home should be exciting—and it can be, even with a few bumps along the way. With the right team, the right plan, and the right mindset, Inspection Day isn’t something to dread—it’s a crucial step in buying wisely and confidently.
Stay tuned for what happens next with this beautiful Clintonville bungalow—we’re just getting started.
Want the full story? Catch up on every chapter below:
← Part 2 – Finding the Right Fit in a Tough Market
→ Part 4 – A Tree Grows in Clintonville (How a Picture-Perfect Tree Nearly Toppled the Deal) - coming next week!
Thinking about making a move or buying your first home? I’d love to be a resource. Let’s talk strategy.
Teresa Kenney, Realtor® | 📞 614-975-8370 | 📧 teresakenney@kw.com | 🌐 teresakenneyrealty.com
