Preparing for an Inspection
As the seller, you may feel like you have no control over the inspection process and are left to the mercy of the Inspector's findings. This does not need to be the case, you can take a proactive approach to the inspection process. Short of having your house inspected by a Professional Real Estate Inspector prior to an offer being made, you can consider doing a few things around the house can ensure a more thorough inspection.
This aspect of the inspection process is seldom thought of, but it's well worth it. I have listed below a handful of examples that you may consider to promote a "cleaner" inspection report and the buyer will not be overwhelmed with all of the minor issues that can be easily avoided.
This aspect of the inspection process is seldom thought of, but it's well worth it. I have listed below a handful of examples that you may consider to promote a "cleaner" inspection report and the buyer will not be overwhelmed with all of the minor issues that can be easily avoided.
- Provide a clear access to electrical panels, attic, HVAC systems in the attic, crawl space and to the water heater. If these items are blocked, major components may not be inspected and you may be charged a re-inspect fee.
- Make certain utilities are on and the pilot lights are lit, if something is not operational due to the utilities being off, you may be charged with a re-inspect fee.
- Clear out underneath sinks for better inspection of the plumbing.
- Repair any leaky faucets or pips.
- Make certain all keys for different doors are accessible.
- Clean excessive clutter on counter tops and below sinks (your Realtor should have some input on what will work best).
- Remove boxes from around the attic hatch, access to all parts of the attic is necessary.
- Remove any wood or foliage that is touching the home.
- Replace burned out light bulbs.
- Provide plenty of room around the crawl space hatch, access to the crawl space is necessary.
- Clean the chimney or have it serviced.
- Clean or replace the A/C filters.
- Seal cracks in the driveways, sidewalks and porches.
- Seal cracks around windows and doors.
- Clean debris from gutters and roof, and trim branches that are touching the roof.
- Lastly, leave if you are able to. As the owner, you are personally attached to your home and may take offense to my findings and what the prospective buyer and I discuss.