HOW TO PREPARE FOR A HOME INSPECTION WHEN SELLING YOUR HOUSE
Most real estate transactions often terminate after the buyer inspects the property. This is because they get easily discouraged by the deficiencies they find out during the home inspection. And a lot of things that scare the buyer away during the inspection are avoidable. That’s why you need to make proper preparations. Here’s how to prepare for a home inspection when selling your house.
Getting ready for home inspection is an important part of preparing the home for sale. The report of the inspection is also an important factor in making the sale go through. As a seller, it is advisable to carry out pre-inspection before buyers begin to come for home inspection.
Carrying out pre-inspection will enable you to discover the deficiencies that buyers will likely point out during an inspection. You will be able to determine what to fix and update. And if the condition of the house has been reflected in the selling price, you may decide not to do any repair.
Pre-inspection can be used as a negotiation strategy. It allows you to know when to insist or give a little on price. Knowing about the real situation of the house is part of your bottom line.
What do buyers check during a home inspection?
Whenever buyers come for home inspection they are most interested in the conditions of the structural features, the systems, and the home appliances.
- Structural features – Buyers want to be sure that there are no issues with the windows, doors, garage, attic, siding or the crawl space.
- Systems – They will want to check the important systems of the home such as the gas, electrical, heating, and cooling systems.
- Appliances – Expect buyers to check the working conditions of the home appliances in the house. They will want to be sure that the oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater, washer, and dryer are in good working order.
How to Prepare for Home Inspection When Selling Your House
- Pre-inspect your home mechanics
Home mechanics such as the roof, furnace, air conditioning, and water heater are one of the important aspect buyers inspect when they come for inspection. Pre-inspect the main mechanics of your home before potential buyer set foot in the house. Ensure all electrical panels and wirings are in good working condition.
- Get your paperwork ready
You should have a file that contains the document of all the maintenance and repair you’ve done on the house over time. If there is an insurance claim, get the papers to prove that you’ve taken care of the problem.
- Ensure easy access to areas that need to be checked
You must ensure that the home inspector has easy access to all parts of the house. Remove any clutter or obstruction that may impede access to areas buyers may need to inspect. If they can’t gain access to some areas it may lead to suspicions. Provide the home inspector with necessary aid or assistance and ensure they are satisfied with the inspection.
- Check the exterior and clear the perimeter
Buyers will not only check the interior of the house but also the exterior. Make sure the siding and the exterior paint are in order. Clean the surroundings of the house and clear clogged gutter for proper channeling of water. Trim trees, bushes, and shrubs making sure that they’re not close to the house or touching the roof.
- Check the roof
The roof is an essential part of the house and it cannot be ignored when preparing for home inspection. Clean the roof gutters and ensure they are free from moss or debris. Make sure the downspouts are in position and also check for any damaged or missing tiles. Take care of any damage before the buyer come home inspection.
- Repair plumbing faults (leakages and water damage)
During home inspection, buyers will definitely be looking for faults in the plumbing systems or water damage. Repair of plumbing faults and water damage should also be done prior to home inspection.
Check for leaks under the sinks, toilets, bathtubs and other appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators. For water damage, look for sagging, buckling or warping in the walls, floors, and ceilings. Don’t forget to also check the exterior for leakages and water damage.
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