What role does a home inspector play in a real estate transaction?

In a real estate transaction, a home inspector's primary role is to assess a property's condition and identify issues before a sale. This involves conducting a thorough inspection of the home, including its structural components, systems such as plumbing and electrical, as well as appliances. By identifying potential problems early in the transaction process, the inspector provides valuable information to both the buyer and seller. This allows the buyer to understand the state of the property and make informed decisions, while also giving the seller an opportunity to address any issues that may arise, potentially avoiding delays in the transaction. This proactive approach can ultimately help in negotiating repairs or adjustments to the sale price based on the findings from the inspection.

The other options refer to roles outside of the typical responsibilities of a home inspector, such as negotiating terms or appraising value, which are carried out by real estate agents or appraisers. Staging the property is related to marketing efforts rather than the assessment of the home's condition.