A home inspection is a critical part of the home-buying process. While an inspection is typically ordered by the buyer, the sale of the property won’t be final until the closing date. The home inspection report can change the way the buyer feels about the home, and negotiations may ensue. For this reason, sellers should do all they can to properly prepare for a home inspection. These steps will help the inspection go more smoothly.
Prepare Your Home for an Inspection
Home inspectors examine every area of the home with a trained eye. Use the following tips to prepare for the inspection:
1. Clean Your Home
Just as you would clean your home before having a showing, keep it clean before the inspection. Prepare for a home inspection by clearing away clutter that might prevent the inspector from accessing every part of your property. He or she will need to inspect areas like the basement, attic, crawl space, and other places that are not frequented often.
2. Tidy the Perimeter to Prepare for a Home Inspection
Examine the exterior of your home’s perimeter for any problems. Look at the foundation, caulking, trim, and siding to see if there are any repairs to be made before the inspector arrives. Clear away any overgrown foliage and clutter around the property.
3. Check the Roof
Check your roof for damage to prepare for a home inspection. Remove leaves and tree branches from the roof, clean debris from the gutters, and replace missing or damaged shingles. Though it can be costly, repairing or replacing a damaged roof will make for a smoother experience during the home-selling process.
4. Replace Burnt Out Bulbs to Prepare for a Home Inspection
Burnt out light bulbs are another item to take care of when you prepare for a home inspection. A blown bulb can indicate faulty wiring or a loose connection, so it’s best to take the guesswork out of the situation by replacing these lightbulbs ahead of time. With all your bulbs in working order, the home inspector won’t have to spend extra time determining if light fixtures are operational. Along the same lines, check the batteries in smoke detectors.
5. Replace the HVAC Filter
Replace the air filters in your home to show that you perform regular maintenance on your HVAC system. The home inspector will include the condition of your HVAC unit in their inspection report, and a dirty filter gives the impression that it hasn’t been maintained.
You won’t be present when the buyer’s inspection occurs, so thoroughly prepare for it beforehand. If you have had any renovations or repairs done, provide the documentation for the inspector and homebuyer. Keep these tips in mind to make sure your property is ready to be inspected.
Brand Name Home Inspections provides home inspection services to Sonoma, Napa, Marin, and Mendocino Counties. Contact us to schedule an appointment.