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Point-of-Sale Inspection Overview:
Municipal Sell-Side Requirements

POS is a city compliance step, not the same as your buyer's home inspection.

By Derica Wade, Associate Broker · Hearts to Homes Team · July 2026

Several Southeast Michigan communities require point-of-sale inspections before a property can transfer. Knowing your city's rules early protects your net proceeds and timeline.

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Municipal Compliance

What Is a Point-of-Sale Inspection?

A POS inspection is a municipal code compliance review required by some cities before property transfer. It focuses on health and safety items the city defines, not the full scope of a buyer's private home inspection.

Two Different Things

POS vs Buyer Home Inspection

Your buyer's inspector works for the buyer's due diligence. The city's POS inspector works for municipal code compliance. You may need to satisfy both on the path to closing.

Seller Tip

Fix obvious code items before listing in POS cities, delayed repairs limit your room to negotiate and can push closing dates.

Action Plan

Seller Steps

  • Confirm whether your city requires POS at sale
  • Order municipal inspection or pre-check per local procedure
  • Complete required repairs and obtain clearance documentation
  • Coordinate timelines with your agent and buyer's lender

Read our COO overview if your city links occupancy certificates to transfer.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is POS the same as a home inspection?+

No. POS is municipal code compliance. A home inspection is private buyer due diligence.

Who pays for POS repairs?+

Negotiable like other repairs, but municipal clearance is often non-optional for closing.

Still Have Questions?

Questions About This Topic?

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