Home Inspection on a property I'm buying to flip? Is this normal?

[Ben W.]

Greetings all! So I'm probably closing today on my first ever investment property. First of all, I'm terrified and ecstatic all at the same time. I'm sure many can relate :) This is a cash offer and the seller wanted a quick close (like, one week). In my original offer I asked for a short due diligence period so I could have an inspection. The seller responded that due diligence does not apply on a cash sale you're going to flip. He told me he'd work with me, but for future reference sellers would "laugh in my face" if I asked for due diligence on this type of property. The only reason we asked for time to do an inspection was due to a strong recommendation from a realtor in my moms office (she's my agent and this is her first deal as well), based on the fact that the seller flat out said due diligence doesn't apply. He felt the seller was likely hiding something. But at the same time, he has no investment experience, so this could be outside what's normal for him. 

Just wanted a few opinions from the pros out there on whether you ever have inspections done on homes you will be flipping. Thanks!

[Blake Berry]

@Russell Brazil I know you have extensive experience in these things, but I respectfully disagree with you, especially for a new investor and especially for a first flip. A good home inspector can be a great teacher. Generally, they are very detail oriented and will inspect things you would never think to look at as a new investor. Additionally, a sewer line inspection is a life saver. Replacing a sewer line can get pricey! (I am not an inspector, but in the past, they have proven their value to me)