I would think you guys had some sort of info. sheet for homeowners on how to prepare the home for inspection:
what to have 'on' or 'off', accessibility, people pets and junk out of the way, utilities still 'on', somewhere to park within one space of the property lines, etc. Experience would dictate what to include. This notification could be sent to both Realtors. That way, if anything is missed, such as a problem in the attic, it makes for a better case that they knew you wanted access up there but deliberately left it inaccessible hoping you wouldn't look, therefore it is a hidden defect. Just puts everyone on notice to cooperate so you can deliver the best objective inspection of the facts as they exist on that date and time.

As for attics being inaccessible, I know some would make that a case for not getting up on the roof. We've all seen enough patch jobs that would act like a trap door if you stood on that section of roof. How about leaning against a framed chase that is simply spiked into platform framing with 3 12d nails? I've repaired a number of chases where they either blew over by wind snapping off at the roof or when someone like me leaned against them. How about when you hop down 4 feet from a chimney onto a roof decked with 1/2" plywood?

How about all the things that would not get inspected?--Chopped off chimneys, disconnected stink pipes, clearances, wiring nightmares, water damage, missing or inadequate insulation, dryer venting into insulation, non-IC rated can lights buried under insulation, rotten roof sheathing, disconnected ducts, etc. --you guys know this better than me.

If there is not accessibility into the attic, then it should be written up as such.

FYI, LittleGiant makesa combination ladder that might be of interest. Can be configured as either step or extension. I still use my Telesteps though I've been wanting a Fire Dept. attic ladder for some time. Just can't justify the cost yet. Wes, you could stop by Alco-Lite and see them being made. They invented the aluminum ladder.

Of course, there is always the ever popular chainsaw that will make the cutout for a future skylight!!! Sounds like a real PIA.

I'd like to hear from anyone who has tried this approach.
TIA,
Bob

__________________
Keep the fire in the fireplace.