In the high-stakes world of buying or selling a home, it’s not uncommon for clients – or even some professionals – to view homebuyer surveys with hesitation.
There’s a lingering perception that these reports might scare off potential buyers or throw a spanner in what seemed like a smooth deal.
But here’s the truth: homebuyer surveys (also called RICS Level 2 surveys) don’t kill deals – they strengthen them.
In fact, they’re one of the most effective tools we have to build trust, eliminate surprises, and close transactions with confidence.
TRANSPARENCY BUILDS TRUST
Trust is the currency of property transactions. Buyers want certainty – they’re making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.
A homebuyer survey delivers clear, impartial information about the condition of a property.
By embracing transparency early, you demonstrate integrity and professionalism. It signals to all parties that you’re invested in a smooth, honest, and informed process. That trust not only accelerates the transaction but also strengthens your reputation in the market.
SURVEY SURPRISES
Without a survey, buyers are left making assumptions.
That opens the door to post-offer complications when unforeseen issues emerge – often at the worst possible time.
A well-timed survey uncovers potential red flags early, giving everyone the opportunity to address them calmly and constructively. Whether that means factoring issues into the price or agreeing on repairs, the key is avoiding last-minute panic or emotionally charged renegotiations.
FALLING APART
No one wants a deal collapsing days before completion due to a hidden issue that could have been resolved weeks earlier.
A homebuyer survey acts like an early warning system. It brings potential problems to light before they become deal-breakers. Instead of derailing the sale, it opens the door to solutions – be it remedial work, price adjustments, or simply resetting expectations. And with everyone on the same page, the transaction is far less likely to stall.
PEACE OF MIND
Surveys don’t just benefit the buyer. Sellers, too, gain peace of mind knowing their property has been professionally reviewed.
They can present it confidently, with fewer chances of post-offer surprises derailing the timeline.
Meanwhile, buyers feel reassured they’re not walking into costly repairs or structural issues. That mutual confidence reduces friction, boosts satisfaction, and keeps the transaction on track.
PROFESSIONAL OFFERING
As an estate agent or property professional, advocating for surveys is a mark of quality. It shows you’re not just chasing a quick sale – you care about the long-term outcome for everyone involved. Encouraging surveys adds value to your service and differentiates you from competitors who might skip due diligence. It’s a move that earns trust, brings in referrals, and ultimately builds a more resilient business.
A homebuyer survey is not an obstacle – it’s a gateway to informed decisions, smoother negotiations, and fewer surprises. By embracing this crucial step, you help everyone involved move forward with clarity and confidence.
So let’s shift the narrative: surveys don’t break deals – they build better ones.
Kharla Mullen is Chief Operating Officer at Countrywide Surveying Services
