The due diligence period is your time to learn everything about the house. It goes quickly, so scheduling starts the day the contract is signed.
A typical order
- Day 1–3: General home inspection, and order the appraisal through your lender
- Day 3–7: Specialists as needed — structural engineer, HVAC, roofer, sewer scope, radon test
- Throughout: Review HOA documents, the survey and the title commitment with your attorney
- Before the deadline: Submit any repair or price-adjustment request
Negotiating repairs
North Carolina sellers are not required to make repairs. Requests are negotiated in writing, usually through a Due Diligence Request and Agreement. Focus on safety issues, major systems and items the inspection found that weren't disclosed. Cosmetic items rarely help the negotiation.
If you need to walk away
You can terminate for any reason before the due diligence deadline. Notice must be delivered in writing and on time. If you do, earnest money is typically returned, and the due diligence fee generally is not.