Neeraj Moolchandani is a top real estate agent in Markham, Ontario.

Neeraj has walked through many Markham inspections as part of Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the teams Markham buyers lean on for careful advice. The goal is not to find a perfect house. It is to know exactly what you are buying.

Do You Even Need to Waive?

In September 2026, Markham had about 4.6 months of inventory, a balanced market. Many homes sold with conditions. Firm offers are most common on homes with an offer date and strong interest, such as well priced semis, which sold for about 101 percent of asking on average.

If you can include an inspection condition, do it. If you cannot, inspect before you offer.

The Checklist

Outside

• Roof: age, curling or missing shingles, flashing, and gutters
• Grading: soil and paving should slope away from the house
• Downspouts: they should carry water well away from the foundation
• Foundation walls: cracks, efflorescence, and signs of past repairs
• Windows and doors: seals, rot, and drafts
• Decks, fences, and the driveway: condition and whether they sit within the property line

Inside

• Basement: water stains, musty smells, sump pump, and backwater valve
• Heating and cooling: age, service records, and whether the furnace or water heater is rented
• Electrical: panel size and condition, grounded outlets, and any older wiring that insurers may question
• Plumbing: pipe materials, water pressure, leaks, and the main shut off
• Attic: insulation, ventilation, and signs of moisture or past leaks
• Bathrooms and kitchen: soft floors, caulking, and ventilation fans

Extra Checks Worth Considering

• Sewer camera scope. Shows the condition of the drain line to the street, especially in older homes with mature trees.
• WETT inspection. For wood burning fireplaces or stoves. Insurers often ask for it.
• Radon test. A long term test gives the most reliable result and can be done after you move in.
• Permit search. Ask the City of Markham about permits for additions, finished basements, decks, and any second suite.

If You Plan to Waive the Condition

1. Book a pre offer inspection. Some sellers provide a pre listing inspection. Read it, but consider your own inspector too.
2. Read every disclosure. Ask about past water, roof replacement dates, and rented equipment.
3. Hold back a repair budget. Do not stretch your price so far that a surprise repair becomes a crisis.
4. Know your limits. If something worries you and you cannot check it before the offer date, it is fine to walk away.

A firm offer is a promise. Make it only when you understand the home.

Choosing an Inspector

• Ask about training, experience, and professional association membership
• Confirm they carry insurance
• Ask for a sample report before you book
• Attend the inspection in person and ask questions
• Expect a written report with photos within a day or two

Buying New Construction?

New homes in Ontario come with builder warranty coverage through Tarion, including one, two, and seven year coverage levels. Still book a pre delivery inspection walk through and take careful notes. See new construction in Markham for more.