Selling a home may be a challenging experience to some, but it can be a smooth transition if we are prepare and ready to avoid any hiccups in the sale process. As a seller you may be wondering what to expect when during a pre-listing inspection or a buyer's inspection has been schedule to inspect your current property. It is very likely your real estate agent has addressed with you some items that need to be fix, changed, repair or maintain. Once you are done fixing all those issues you. might think your work is complete.However, there may be other issues you still need to address that only a home inspector can find.
Home Inspectors will be looking for what is unsafe, aging, or improperly installed. A good way and measure to avoid delays that can last days or weeks at the closing table for you or the buyer, it may be in your best interest to obtain a home inspection. Read on Pre-Listing Inspections . As you are not obligated to do a Pre-Listing inspection Buyer's are not required by law to have a home inspection done, but despite nor requiring it, it is beneficial and advisable, also some lenders may not grant a mortgage loan without it. You might be wondering, if its not your responsibility then why should you care? Simple, a Home Inspection will allow for a much more seamless process of selling your home once you and the buyer get to the closing stage.
What to Expect during a home inspection?
When you’re ready to sell your home, it may be a good idea to get a home inspection before putting it on the market. Keep in mind that an inspector isn’t intentionally looking for trouble. Instead, they want to compile an unbiased, detailed report that is useful to all parties involved. This will allow you to know well in advance the necessary items you’ll need to fix and then determine whether you want to repair them exclusively or try to negotiate with the buyer to help with these updates, especially if they are big-ticket items.
What do Home Inspectors Look for? To help make an inspector’s job easier
Check that toilets flush without issues.
Check the caulk around tubs and shower for cracks or deterioration.
Try out all the door and windows, including hinges, knobs, locks, or other hardware.
Encourage you to get maintenance on your HVAC and ensure it is free from obstructions.
Make sure the dryer vent is clean and free of obstructions leading outside.
Confirm the safety detectors are working properly.
Look out for any obstructions to the electrical components such as main panel.
Examine the water heater and its surrounding ensuring proper straps .
Observe the roof and chimney for any obstructions .
Check for cracks or other issues with the foundation, particularly drainage problems.
Check for moisture issues, including water stains or mold buildup.
While this isn’t an exhaustive list of what an inspector will check, it will give you a gist of what most inspectors will likely investigate. If you notice problems in any of these areas before an inspector arrives, fixing them is a good idea.
Here are Ten Tips for preparing for Home Inspection, before inspector arrives:
1. Make sure the home is clean and presentable.
2. Make sure all areas of the home are accessible to the inspector.
3. Make sure all utilities are on and functioning properly.
4. Make sure all safety features are in working order, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
5. Make sure all appliances are in working order.
6. Make sure all windows and doors are in good condition.
7. Make sure all plumbing fixtures are in good condition.
8. Make sure all electrical outlets are in good condition.
9. Make sure all HVAC systems are in good condition.
10. Make sure all crawl spaces and attics are accessible.
In addition, if you have any pets on your property, it is best for pets to be away for the duration of the inspection. It usually takes anywhere from 2 hours to 2.5
Leave important keys with clear directions.
Your inspector will be taking a look at all garages and your exterior electric box. Leave all keys and garage door openers out in an easy-to-find location with clear directions. You’ll also want to leave any special instructions.
Provide access to the basement, crawl space and attic.
Clear a path to access points for basements, crawl spaces and garages and unbolt any doors. If these spaces are being used for storage, move all items out from the wall by at least two feet. It’s also a good idea to vacuum cobwebs and look for any rodent activity.
Catch up on yard work.
It’s important to clear the area around the foundation of your home so your inspector can examine it for damage. Clear away leaves, brush or snow along the perimeter of your home and be sure there are no other obstacles in the way, like garbage cans. You may also need to trim any tree branches touching the house.
Gather important receipts and documents for remodeling projects and repairs.
If you’ve made substantial repairs to your home, like replacing the roof or windows, you’ll want to provide all invoices, manuals and warranties. It’s also a good idea to produce a receipt for any new appliances. While your inspector won’t need copies of these items, they’ll make a note of them in their report, giving the buyer peace of mind.
Should Homeowner be present at the time of inspection? while it is not required to be present, but it is always wise to be informed.
We are here to help if you have any additional questions! contact@strongtower-inspections.com
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