Selling your home can be a lengthy process. Fixing up the house, finding prospective buyers, and negotiating the price takes some time. Once an offer is made, there is still a lot to do before closing. Your buyer will likely order a home inspection during which you will need to vacate the house. Take these steps to prepare for a home inspection to help it go smoothly.
Here are 7 ways to prepare for a home inspection:
1. Clear the Way
During the home inspection, the inspector will need to have open access to all areas that need to be checked. If a certain area isn’t accessible, your buyer might ask for the inspector to come back at a time when it is open. This will only prolong the process. Clear and unlock areas that lead to basements, attics, utility closets, and cabinets. The buyer may also request that you pay the inspector’s fee to come back at a later date, once you have cleared the way for the inspector to access the area.
2. Check Your Surroundings
While making room for the inspector on the inside of the house, do the same for the exterior. Move any objects that are blocking parts of the home so the inspector can easily access all areas.
3. Check the Roof
Your buyer will feel better about moving forward with the sale if the inspection report shows no attic leaks or other roof problems. If you know of any issues with your roof, have them fixed before the inspection.
Clean the gutters to show that your home is well-maintained. It is easier to see the condition of clean gutters than dirty ones. If you do not feel comfortable on a ladder, hire a professional for this task. Check the roof for damaged or missing shingles.
4. Stay Tidy
Keeping the house tidy gives the inspector more room to evaluate the condition of the components. If the water heater closet is cluttered, for instance, the inspector may not be able to inspect all of its parts. Your buyer will not be confident about their home purchase if the inspector was unable to evaluate everything normally included in an inspection.
5. Check the Appliances to Prepare for a Home Inspection
Appliances are expensive to replace, so buyers want to know that they’re working properly. When you prepare for a home inspection, check all the appliances and electrical connections throughout the house. Change filters and replace batteries and bulbs where necessary. Make sure that all labels on the fuse box are current and up-to-date.
6. Search for Leaks and Water Damage
Leaks and water damage are red flags to a potential buyer. The inspector will check for any traces of these problems and include notes in the inspection report. Look for plumbing leaks and have them and any related damages fixed before the inspection.
7. Evaluate Your Attic and Crawlspace
These are areas that many homeowners never go. You can have water intrusion and roof leaks. Pest infestations and mold growth. Get in front of it and get the areas cleaned up before your inspection.
Use this guide and you’ll be well-prepared when inspection day arrives.
Aztec Home Services provides home inspection and testing services to Harrisonburg, VA, including pre-listing inspections. Contact us to schedule an inspection if you are buying or selling a home.