Also, many things have recently changed in the California real estate industry. For example, it is now common for buyers to make offers with no upfront money. That is, no earnest money deposit (EMD), no pre-approval letter, and no proof of funds to cover the down payment and closing costs are required until after an offer is accepted. After an offer is accepted those three items are due and the buyer has 17 calendar days to investigate the property and decide whether to proceed toward close of escrow or cancel the contract and get the deposit back. Investigating the property means having a professional property inspection and reviewing the seller’s disclosures and other reports. During the 17 days (called the contingency period) the buyer and seller negotiate over who pays for any needed repairs, which includes termite damage. Previously, termite inspections and Section 1 repairs were separate from other repairs. Now, termite issues are part of the property repairs. Close to the end of the contingency period the buyer presents to the seller a “Request for Repairs” form, which usually includes termite damage, which often includes fumigation (tenting). Details upon request, at no charge, of course. More info: Two more helpful blog posts: Buyer’s guide to a real estate transaction, and Seller’s guide to a real estate transaction.