8 Tips for Sellers Before a Home Inspection

Many potential buyers will not skip a home inspection. Here are a few tips to help make the process easier.

You’re selling your home…

Your property is being considered by a buyer. However, they would like a home inspection to be performed. What can you do to ensure that everything goes smoothly? This guide will discuss our eight top tips for home sellers prior to a home inspection in Salt Lake City.

Let’s get started!

1. Think About Curb Appeal

When a buyer comes to your home, it is important that you make a good first impression. A different type of curb appeal will make the inspection of your home a breeze.

  • Trim back all vegetation so that there is about one foot between the plant and your house.
  • If you notice any damage to the siding or trim, have it fixed before.
  • Trim and repair any exposed nail heads.
  • Verify the functionality of exterior locks, deadbolts and doors. Fill in any gaps you may see.

2. Check Your Roof & Gutters

Florida gets its fair share rain and wind. Ensure that your roof is in good condition. Be sure to:

  • Use a pressure washer or blower to remove any debris from the roof.
  • Replace any missing or damaged elements. Temporary repairs like mastic and caulk are noted as defects.
  • Cleaning the gutters thoroughly
  • Check that the drains and downspouts are not blocked and flowing correctly. Make sure that the runoff doesn’t collect next to your house.

3. Prepare Your Interior

After the exterior has been taken care of, you can now do a quick inspection of the interior and make any repairs or replacements necessary to prepare it for the inspection. Included in this are:

  • Test all interior door and lock mechanisms
  • Checking under sinks for leaks
  • Checking that the hot water heater is working properly
  • How to change the filter in an HVAC system
  • Inspection of all trim, caulking and seals
  • Checking smoke detectors for proper operation
  • Test all fixtures, fans and lights
  • Visually inspecting the drywall for nail pops and cracks.

4. Clean up as Much As Possible

  • Make sure to check the exterior of your house, including the roof, garage and so on. Make sure the inspector has access to the entire system that needs to be checked.
  • Clear away all clutter from areas where the inspector will be examining closely, such as furnaces, HVAC units and utility closets.
  • You can also make any minor repairs that are needed if you notice anything wrong.

5. Be on Time

You should be ready for the inspector to arrive at the appointed time. You don’t want them to be late because you were not prepared.

6. All Areas Accessible

You’ll be required to give them the keys, garage openers or codes for any detached units or “granny-flats” that you have.
If you have sprinkler systems or other systems with electrical panel boxes or utility boxes, make sure to leave the keys and instructions on how to unlock them so that inspectors can access them and inspect them.

7. Please Provide any Relevant Documents

You should make sure that inspectors have access to all the paperwork related to remodeling projects, as well as documentation for major repairs and upgrades, such a a new HVAC system, roof or plumbing.

The documentation will help the inspector create their report and give the buyer peace of mind as they’ll have a better idea when each major component in the home was inspected, fixed, or replaced.

8. Get Out of the House

The buyer will often accompany the inspector and ask questions throughout the inspection. They may feel uncomfortable if they see you around the house. Plan to entertain yourself while the inspector is working. You can go to the gym, run some errands, or schedule a coffee with a friend. Bring your pets or secure them. Stay outside for at least 3 hours. Once the inspection is completed, return to your home.

Use These Tips To Ensure That Your Home Inspection Is A Success!

Follow these tips to ensure that the home inspection goes smoothly. You can contact our team if you have any questions or would like to schedule a home inspection prior to buyers viewing your home. Schedule an appointment now.

Many potential buyers will not skip a home inspection. Here are a few tips to help make the process easier. You’re selling your home… Your property is being considered by a buyer. However, they would like a home inspection to be performed. What can you do to ensure that everything goes smoothly? This guide will discuss our eight…

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