Deciding to sell may be easy. Actually getting your place ready for inspection, though? That’s another story entirely. 

A home inspection is an important opportunity for you as a seller. You can determine problems with the house before considering its value. Clarity on the condition of your property will make it feasible to address any issues and negotiate a fair asking price.

One of the most stress-inducing points is getting your home ready for inspection. But your own ‘pre-inspection’ is an essential part of the selling process. Advance preparation for it (rather than procrastination) will bring you several benefits. According to Zillow, taking this action will present you as an honest party—you’re not trying to hide anything—and it will help your negotiation strategy since you’re less likely to be blindsided by any major issues. 

Here are the top items inspectors will focus on: 

Leaks and Damage

Leaks and water damage are major concerns. So, it is essential to identify and fix all water-related issues before the inspection. You can check for leaks under sinks, around the base of toilets and showers, around faucets, and other appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators and clothes washers. You can analyze ceilings, floors, walls and the casements around windows to identify water damage. And don’t forget to check the attic! There, you’ll want to look for signs of leakage and poor ventilation.

Hiring a real estate agent can point you in the right direction and save your time during the home inspection.

Structural Component Issues

Structural damage can range from minor (wall dents) to major (foundation cracks). Structural components may include plumbing and electrical system repair, or the property’s foundation, beams, trusses, and joists. Moreover, you can examine your mechanical heating and cooling system and closely look at the insulation and ventilation system. You’ll want to check any visibly damaged areas of your roofing or its internal layers. Last, but not least: Focus on the drainage system and check gutter seals.

HVAC Malfunctions

Make sure to examine all systems of your home, including air conditioning, water heater, etc. You can hire a technician for a thorough inspection. They can detect issues and offer a potential solution. It is better to replace your HVAC filter system so that the inspector finds everything well-maintained. 

Wooden Features & Built-Ins

Wooden features and built-ins that may come under inspection includes cabinets, doors, built-in bookcases and wall-attached cupboards. Make sure to check hinges and identify any glaring nicks or scratches. Loose hinges cannot be closed or opened properly. So make sure to tighten all loose hinges and check if they need any minor repairs.

Safety Precautions

This may be this list’s truly lifesaving section. You likely know that attending to safety precautions is essential to maintaining your home’s security. Replace batteries in smoke detectors and test carbon monoxide detectors. Also, ensure the availability of fire extinguishers and proper seals on gas lines and chimney entry points. Besides this, you might want to call the exterminator: eliminating all bugs and rodents can help to prevent future damage to your home. 

You’re busy. We recognize that repairing your home for inspection is a time-consuming process. Still, proper maintenance of your home will make it easier for buyers when it comes time to make the all-important decision to put an offer in on your place. Put the above points into practice, and your home will pass inspection with flying colors!