Seller could reverse the usual course of events after a deal is discussed by clearly advising a motivated buyer in writing to investigate any special facts or uncertainties before contracts are signed and deposits made. Buyer's expense is well worth it in the jumbo sales. The seller must agree to hold the property off the market for a short time while the inspections are completed and before contracts and deposits occur. Reducing uncertainty for the seller is worth the seller agreeing to a lower price if buyer's qualms are resolved in advance of signing. Buyer will then have had multiple inspections.
Seller can have the obligation to maintain the property as the inspections show it.
Buyer should not be given the right to a walk through just before close. There would be fewer deals that break up or produce lawsuits or reduced commissions just before close. I can't second guess most real estate sales, but with the right people and price, I have seen this approach work in a market where prices are not on the rise, certainly reduced. This article is printed courtesy of the West San Gabriel Valley Association of Realtors, for whom Merrill W. Francis is legal counsel.