HOME INSPECTION TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS, HOME INSPECTION TIPS FOR SELLERS
Preparing For Your Home Inspection
A home inspection can be a stressful time in the selling process. Wondering what the home inspector will find can be a nerve-wracking experience. Relax! No home is perfect. Buyers want to know exactly what is wrong with their future home, just as you will when you purchase your next home. Follow these tips below to make sure your home inspection goes as smoothly as possible.
Turn All Utilities On
We will be testing appliances, running water, making sure lights and outlets work, etc. during the inspection. Utilities (gas, water, electricity) will need to be turned on in order to conduct a proper inspection. Having these utilities turned on will not only save time during the inspection, but can also avoid a re-inspection, which may include an additional fee.
Repair Items Before the Home Inspection
Schedule repair for any known items or concerns before the date of the inspection. Don’t cross your fingers and hope that the inspector will miss the issue. Even minor things can show up on the home inspection report. It is better to fix items on your own terms than to negotiate with buyers about repairs. Something you think is a minor issue may be an important item to the buyer. Items such as poor draining sinks or tubs, anything that may be loose such as toilets, handles, and handrails can all be added to the report.
Consider a Pre-Listing Home Inspection
Scheduling a pre-listing inspection can save you money, lead to a faster close and give you a competitive edge in the market. Waiting on the buyer’s inspection report can add stress and anxiety to the sale process. Items noted in the buyer’s inspection report will need to be repaired by licensed contractors. Pre-listing home inspections can eliminate stress and allow you to get ahead of any issues that may need to be resolved.
Prepare Your Home
Become familiar with common items found during a home inspection. This can help you prepare for your inspection. Simple fixes go a long way. Below are some items that can easily be checked and corrected prior to your inspection:
Exterior
Cut back any vegetation (shrubs, bushes, etc.) that is close-to or in-contact with your home. There should be a minimum of 6 inches between siding and vegetation
Replace or refresh deteriorated caulking at areas such as: around windows and doors, or material intersections
Check siding and trim for damage and repair as needed
Roof
Clear any debris from the roof surface
Make sure gutters are free and clear of debris
Inspect gutters and downspouts for damage and repair as needed
Repair any damaged or missing shingles. Proper repair is key. A home inspector will note any substandard repairs
Garage
Test the garage door auto-reverse photo sensors to make sure they are aligned and functioning
Open and close the garage door to make sure it operates smoothly
Electrical
Test all lights and replace bulbs or fixtures as needed
Make sure batteries for any fixture remote controls are fresh
Test smoke detectors and replace any that are 10 years or older
Plumbing
Check for leaks under sinks and cabinets and make repairs as needed
Tighten loose toilets and replace any deteriorated caulking
Look for leaks or water staining around your water heater
Replace or refresh deteriorated caulking or grout at areas such as: shower and tub surrounds, plumbing fixtures and counter top and wall intersections
HVAC
Check your air filter and replace if dirty
Run the system to make sure that it is heating and cooling
Interior
Test all doors and windows to make sure they are functioning properly
Install window screens that may have been removed for cleaning
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Buying or selling a home in the Triangle area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Triangle area reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Triangle area home inspectors help you make an informed decision.
New Leaf Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of the counties located in the Triangle area.
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