What is the most appropriate way for a buyer to notify a seller about defects in a property?

Issuing a notice to the offer to purchase along with an inspection report is the most appropriate way for a buyer to notify a seller about defects in a property. This method provides a clear, formal, and documented way to communicate the discovery of defects. It demonstrates the buyer's seriousness and ensures that there is a record of the defects identified during a professional inspection.

This approach protects both parties by creating an official record of the issues, which can be important for negotiations and any potential future disputes. Furthermore, attaching an inspection report offers specific details about the defects, helping the seller understand the extent of the issues and enabling informed discussions about repairs or adjustments to the terms of the sale.

Using verbal communication during negotiations or a casual discussion during a showing lacks the necessary formality and could lead to misunderstandings, as they do not provide a permanent record of the concerns raised. Writing a separate letter may be more formal than casual discussions but still does not have the same level of integration with the purchase offer as the notice does, potentially complicating communication between parties.