Due Diligence Costs
Budgeting for inspections, appraisals, and testing in the Denver Metro area.
For the Denver Metro market, buyers need to budget for several out-of-pocket expenses during the contract period. These due diligence costs are typically paid before closing and are separate from your loan closing costs and down payment.
Typical Costs (2026 Estimates)
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Home Inspection | $400 - $700 |
| Condo Inspection | $300 - $500 |
| Radon Test | $150 - $250 |
| Sewer Scope | $175 - $300 |
| Mold Testing (if needed) | $350 - $700 |
| Appraisal | $500 - $900+ |
Home inspections on a typical Denver-area single-family home are usually running between $400 and $700, depending on size, age, and complexity. Larger homes, older homes, mountain properties, and luxury homes can exceed $800.
Highly Recommended for Colorado
- General Home Inspection (Never skip)
- Sewer Scope (Especially homes built before 2000. In the Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Ken Caryl, Centennial, and Lakewood areas, sewer scopes often uncover issues that can cost thousands to repair.)
- Radon Test (Colorado is one of the highest-radon states in the country.)
Those three combined typically total about $700 to $1,000 and are among the most valuable due diligence items in Colorado.
Appraisals
For appraisals, most Denver-area conventional, FHA, and VA loans are currently seeing appraisal fees in the $500 to $900 range, with higher fees for rural, luxury, acreage, unique, or complex properties. This is required by the lender.
Example: Typical $600,000 Littleton Home
A buyer should expect approximately:
- Home Inspection: $550
- Radon: $200
- Sewer Scope: $225
- Appraisal: $700
Bottom Line for Buyers
For clients in the $400,000 to $800,000 range, I advise budgeting $1,500 to $2,000 total for inspections and the appraisal during the transaction. Planning for this number ensures there are no surprises later, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new home.