Sellers in real estate transactions often want top dollar and to sell the property quickly. On the other hand, buyers wish to own a beautiful property at a fair price and in good condition. Home inspectors are a critical part of home purchases, and it helps to get information from them on how to be prepared for a home inspection so that both parties reach their goals.
Selling your home can be a daunting task – there is so much to consider and prepare for in order to ensure that the entire process goes smoothly. One of the most important things you should do before selling your home is to inspect it by a qualified professional. In this article, we’ll be discussing ten things that you should do to make sure you’re prepared for your home inspection. Read on to find out more!
Tips To Prepare Your Home For An Inspection
It would be best if you prepared your home properly so the inspector can see that it is well-maintained. First impressions matter, and investing money upfront can make a big difference.
As a home seller, you are responsible for ensuring that your home is in the best possible condition for a home inspection. This means taking care of any necessary repairs and ensuring that the house is clean and clutter-free. Here are some specific things you can do to prepare for your home inspection:
- The best way to make your property look its best for inspection is by cleaning the inside and outside. Multiple inconsistencies in cleaning duties are like a red flag to an experienced home inspector. A home inspector will notice anything that isn’t well-maintained from a mile away, even if it’s not written in the final report. With buyers usually present at inspections, you’ll want to make a good impression on them, too, so they don’t have any second thoughts about making an offer.
- Consider hiring a handyman to review the house and fix any issues, such as loose door hardware and faucets. Repair significant items (such as the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems), or be straightforward about them. Replace any burned-out light bulbs, or the inspector will list the fixture as inoperative.
- The home inspector will not likely conduct a detailed analysis of invoices, but it can demonstrate seller pride of ownership and help answer questions the inspector may have.
- Make sure all utilities, including electricity, gas, and water, are on if the property is vacant. If there is a pool or spa, ensure it has been filled and is ready for testing.
- Your home inspector will not light pilot lights on stoves, furnaces, and water heaters for safety reasons. Make sure these systems are operating before your inspection to avoid delays.
- The attic entrance, appliances, electrical panels, and heating and cooling systems must be accessible to the inspector. Remove any storage boxes, miscellaneous items, and debris from these areas. We recommend clearing at least three feet of workspace.
- As part of the home inspection, the dishwasher will be operated. Please fill the soap dispenser if you want dirty dishes cleaned.
- The inspection can be delayed or incomplete if systems and components are not accessible, such as electrical panels, sheds, and utility rooms.
- You should secure your pets in a kennel or gated area away from the structure. If inspectors have difficulty accessing the structure, delays will result, and upset pets may run away.
- It is best to have the buyer and inspector review the home alone during the inspection. We have seen buyers back out of a sale because of seller interaction.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your home inspection goes smoothly and that any issues with your property are found and addressed before closing on the sale.