Would you waive inspection on an older Montreal townhouse?

Another offer may need to be submitted quickly, and that is exactly when I do not want competition to push us into accepting an unknown repair bill. We have already lost two older Montreal townhouses to less conditional bids, but removing inspection protection on a C$1,492,000 purchase seems disproportionate.

I am also questioning the assumption that the only choices are a full standard condition or no inspection at all. Could we arrange meaningful access before offering, then use a short but broad inspection condition if that is not possible? A structural-only clause worries me because it could leave plumbing, electrical, roof and moisture findings outside the decision.

The property looks reasonably maintained, though its age and possible period of vacancy remain concerns. I would only consider a reduced condition after confirming the vacancy history, insurance implications and enough available cash for moving, the excess and urgent findings.

I’d shorten the inspection period rather than narrow what the inspector can examine. A structural-only condition could miss expensive plumbing, electrical, moisture or roof problems. A pre-offer inspection is another option if access can be arranged, though you may pay for one and still lose the property. What exactly is the vacancy concern—has the townhouse been empty, or is its occupancy history simply unclear?

I’m less enthusiastic about a pre-offer inspection than sbakker unless you’re given enough time and access for it to be meaningful. Pressure to move quickly can turn it into little more than a walkthrough.

Before dropping the condition, price the worst plausible first months: moving costs, first mortgage payment, insurance excess and immediate repairs, while preserving an emergency fund. Ask about insurance before offering if vacancy may matter, and delay furniture purchases. If that leaves no comfortable buffer, losing another bid is preferable to owning a hidden problem.