Ever wonder why your realtor keeps saying "don't touch that" while you're touring a home?

In this episode, Brittney breaks down the awkward but important conversations she has with clients during showings, from kids climbing on attic ladders to buyers testing garage door remotes and thermostats. If you've ever felt confused (or a little offended) by these boundaries, this one is for you.

This episode is for anyone actively touring homes, whether you're a first time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, plus real estate agents who want a better way to explain these rules to clients. Brittney walks through exactly what not to touch during a showing and a final walkthrough, and why: attics, garage doors, electrical panels, thermostats, sprinkler systems, pools, and running water can all carry real liability if something goes wrong.

You'll walk away understanding the difference between an agent's E&O insurance and a home inspector's specialized coverage, why final walkthroughs exist to confirm repairs rather than launch a new inspection, and a real story about an HVAC issue that shows why third party reports matter more than anyone's word, agent included.


Key Takeaways

• Agents are not inspectors. Attics, garage doors, electrical panels, and thermostats are off limits during showings because agents don't carry the insurance to cover damage.
• E&O insurance covers contract disputes, not property damage. Home inspectors and contractors carry separate, specialized coverage for that.
• Running water can trigger hidden leaks. If it's not clearly safe, leave it to the home inspector.
• The final walkthrough confirms repairs and condition, it is not a second inspection. Save nitpicking for the due diligence period.
• Sprinklers, pools, and hot tubs need their own third party inspection since home inspectors typically don't check them.
• A real HVAC example shows why documented, third party proof matters more than anyone's word, including the agent's.

🎧If this episode helped clear things up, subscribe so you never miss an episode, leave a review to help other buyers and agents find the show, and share this one with a friend who's about to start touring homes.

Closing Chapters Podcast: Where Every Mission Has A Story

Thanks for listening. We talk all things military real estate, my transactions, the mistakes, the wins, and simple plays you can use right now.

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Disclaimer: This podcast education only & is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Talk with your own pros about your situation. Opinions are my own.

© 2025 Brittney Frye. All rights reserved. Realtor, license # 352197 in NC. Brokerage: REAL Broker l Military Division