Complete an Inspection

Inspecting the physical condition of a home is an important part of the home-selling process. Professional inspectors should look for defects or malfunctions in the building's structure, systems, and physical components, such as the roof, plumbing, electrical and heating/cooling systems, floor surfaces and paint, windows and doors, and foundation, and detect pest infestations or dry rot and similar damage. The inspector should also examine the land around the house for issues concerning grading, drainage, retaining walls, and plants affecting the house.

You may ask why would you want to have a home inspection prior to listing your home?

If the inspection is left to the buyer they may have the upper hand when finalizing the purchase. If you are willing to do the inspection ahead of time, you will maintain control as the seller and here is why.

One of the most common ways to sink a home sale or lower the bidding price is a surprise finding in a home inspection, and this is a proactive and a precautionary step by having an inspection before listing. A home inspection can cost as much as $500, but real estate experts say it's a great way to take any of the unknowns out of the home selling equation.

Having a home inspection prior to listing offers a host of benefits with little upfront cost. It identifies any major problems that could later scare off would-be bidders. Buying a house is an emotional and scary experience, especially for first-time buyers, and if the home inspection comes back with a major repair needed, it could scare them off, even if the seller agrees to fix it.

If you have the items repaired or replaced ahead of time and it doesn't come up with the buyer, it's a non-issue. It also helps sellers to adjust their asking price accordingly.

It's often cheaper for sellers to make the repairs or replacements on their own ahead of listing than at the negotiation table. At closing, buyers may want to have their own licensed contractor do the necessary work which may be more costly to the seller.

Pam will be able to offer advice on inspectors who will assist in offering the most affordable inspections to prepare for your sale.