As a seller, there’s nothing more exciting than getting an interested buyer, ready to sign the paperwork and pay a purchase price you’re happy with. With a home inspection being the only thing that lies between you and that closing handshake, make sure you are well-prepared for your home inspection by doing the following.
1. Understand how crucial the inspection is.
According to moving.com, “Most home buyers choose to make the closing contingent on the results of the home inspection, meaning that they can back out of the sale if the inspector finds something that is not to their liking and the seller is unwilling to repair it or lower the purchase price to account for it.” This means that you, as the seller, need to make sure your home is ready to be put under a magnifying glass. The last thing you want is for the inspection to uncover something you overlooked.
2. Clean your home well, keeping key checkpoints clear.
The purpose of a home inspection is to make sure everything meets the standards/expectations of the buyer. So in preparation for your home inspection, make sure you clean everything thoroughly. You want the inspector to get the best first impression of your home as possible. They won’t grade you on cleanliness, but they will be suspicious if they have to dig their way through clutter or move large pieces of furniture to check certain spots. Some areas you should particularly pay attention to are:
- Basement
- Attic
- Fireplace
- Furnace room
- Underneath sinks
- Roof
3. Make minor and major repairs.
Make sure everything in your home is functioning as it should before the inspection. Whether it’s a missing lightbulb, an old air filter, or an outlet that won’t work, troubleshoot/fix issues you come across, no matter how big or small. Also, remember to get rid of any pests if you have them, fix faulty doors/cabinets, and get rid of any leaks (including the stains or damages that accompany them.)
4. Don’t forget to prep outdoor spaces.
The inspector will want to take a look at both the inside and outside of your home. In light of this, you need to ensure your grass is cut, bushes are trimmed, and any large items like trash cans are stored. Don’t forget to make repairs to the roof as well, if necessary.
Once you’ve prepared as much as you can, make plans to be out of the house during the inspection and try to not to be nervous. As intimidating as an inspection sounds, if you prepare thoroughly, you have nothing to be afraid of!
