The Benefits of Doing an Inspection in a NYC Co-op
By Darya Goldstein, Real Estate Broker at Compass
Many buyers believe inspections aren’t necessary when purchasing a NYC co-op—but they’re one of the smartest steps you can take. Even though you’re not buying the entire building, an inspection gives you clarity, leverage, and peace of mind.
Why an Inspection Matters
1. Understand the condition of the apartment.
Issues like outdated electrical, old plumbing, hidden water damage, window problems, or aging HVAC units often go unnoticed during showings. An inspector spots what you can’t.
2. Potential negotiation power.
If the inspection reveals needed repairs, you may be able to renegotiate the price, request credits, or have the seller make fixes before closing.
3. Get insight into building-wide health.
Inspectors can identify signs of larger building issues—water infiltration, aging risers, deferred maintenance—that could lead to higher costs or future assessments.
4. Plan for upcoming expenses.
Windows, electrical upgrades, plumbing, or older AC units can affect your future maintenance budget. Knowing this early helps you prepare.
5. Smooth future renovations.
If you plan to renovate, an inspection helps you understand the structure of the unit and anticipate challenges before construction.
An inspection gives you confidence and protects your investment in one of the most complex real estate markets in the world. If you’re considering buying or selling a co-op, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
— Darya Goldstein, Compass
