A complete, top-to-bottom evaluation of a home's structure, systems, and safety — whether you're buying with confidence or preparing to sell on your own terms.
A pre-purchase and a pre-listing inspection are the same comprehensive, top-to-bottom evaluation of a home — the difference is simply when it happens and who orders it. Both examine all the major systems and components of the property: the roof, foundation, structure, heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, attic, and more. The goal is the same in either case — a clear, honest, photo-documented understanding of the home's true condition.
At Cardinal Home Inspection, every inspection is performed personally by Steve Hord, a State of Florida Licensed Home Inspector (HI1891) and InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector with more than 20,000 inspections completed across Bay County since 1999. Every finding is documented with high-quality photos and advanced thermal imaging where conditions call for it, and explained in plain language — so you understand not just what was found, but what it means for you.
Whether you're a buyer who wants the full picture before closing, or a seller who wants to get ahead of surprises, the value is the same: real information, delivered honestly, that puts you in control of one of the largest decisions you'll ever make.
A Cardinal inspection evaluates all the readily accessible interior and exterior components and systems of the home.
Roof covering, flashing, gutters, attic structure, insulation, and ventilation — critical on the Florida coast where sun, wind, and storms take their toll.
Foundation, framing, load-bearing components, floors, walls, and ceilings evaluated for movement, settlement, and structural concerns.
Service panel, branch circuits, outlets, fixtures, and visible wiring checked for safety issues and proper function.
Supply lines, drains, water heater, fixtures, and visible piping inspected for leaks, function, and condition.
HVAC and ventilation systems evaluated for operation, age, and remaining service life — essential in the Gulf Coast climate.
Windows, doors, siding, decks, porches, garages, driveways, and attached appliances assessed inside and out.
Buying a home is exciting, and it's natural to fall in love with a property's location, style, and setting. That emotional attachment is exactly why an independent, experienced inspector matters — to remove the guesswork and replace it with facts.
A pre-purchase inspection reveals the true condition of the home before you commit, often surfacing issues the seller may not even know about. That knowledge becomes your best negotiating tool.
A pre-listing inspection lets you see exactly what a buyer's inspector will find — before they find it. That head start lets you fix or disclose issues on your own schedule, price your home with confidence, and avoid last-minute surprises that can derail a closing.
Sellers who get ahead of the inspection often negotiate from a much stronger position and enjoy a smoother, faster sale.
From your first phone call to final report delivery, here's exactly what to expect.
Call 850-215-4700 or text 850-624-5255, or use our contact form. We'll get you booked on a timeline that fits your closing.
Steve evaluates the home top to bottom with advanced technology and documents every finding with photos. You're encouraged to attend.
You receive a detailed, photo-documented digital report with findings and clear, plain-language explanations.
Questions after the report? Call Steve directly. We make sure you understand every finding.
It's the same thorough, top-to-bottom inspection — the only difference is the timing and who orders it. A pre-purchase inspection is ordered by a buyer before closing; a pre-listing inspection is ordered by a seller before putting the home on the market. Both deliver the same detailed, photo-documented report.
For an average-sized home, expect about 2 to 3 hours on-site. Larger homes, older homes, or homes with significant issues may take longer. Steve takes the time needed to do the job right — no rushed inspections and no skipped systems.
Yes — Steve strongly encourages it. Being present means you can see issues firsthand, ask questions in real time, and learn how the home's systems actually work. It's one of the most valuable hours you'll spend in the process.
Absolutely. Wind mitigation, four-point, thermal imaging, sewer scope and septic, and radon and well-water testing can all be added. Just ask when you schedule and Steve will put together the right package for the property.
Cardinal Home Inspection serves Panama City Beach plus the surrounding Bay County communities — including Panama City, Lynn Haven, Callaway, Mexico Beach, Port St Joe, Chipley, Rosemary Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach. Not sure if you're in our area? Give us a call.
Call Steve today • FL License HI1891 • InterNACHI CPI • BBB A+ Accredited Member • Serving Panama City Beach & Bay County