A home inspection is a necessary part of buying or selling a home - but unfortunately, this part of the process is often viewed as a "deal killer." The reality is that a potential problem during the inspection could result in the deal falling apart. But many of these issues can be avoided if you are proactive in the home inspection process.
Even though it's nerve-wracking as a homeowner to wait for the results from a home inspection, there are a few things you can do to be prepared:
Trust Guidance from Your Real Estate Agent A good real estate agent is worth their weight in gold! When your agent is supporting your efforts, you can rest assured to know that your agent is working hard to protect your interests. Your agent can help you navigate potential types of home maintenance issues, negotiate a fair deal, design a plan to handle repair requests, and even offer referrals for good contractors you should hire.
Don't Rush the Inspector Expect that it is going to take the inspector a few hours to complete all necessary steps in your home. A general rule of thumb is that inspectors need about an hour for every 1,000 square feet in the property. Often, the buyer is present at the inspection with their real estate agent. As the seller, you are also anxious for this information, but it can create more stress for both parties to have you there. The best solution is to leave so the inspection can be completed accurately. Then, your real estate agent will keep you updated about the results after the inspection is complete.
Make it Easy for the Inspector Your real estate agent can offer tips to ensure that the inspection is as easy as possible for the inspector. For example, it's important that all utilities are on including electricity, gas, and water. If remote controls are required for appliances or lighting, then leave those remotes in plain sight. The inspector will be checking the function of the appliances and major house systems, which is why utilities are essential to show that everything is working correctly. Also, be sure to clear the clutter so the inspector can get to electrical panels, pipes, and anything else they want to see.
Be Proactive with Potential Issues You can be proactive with minor repairs and improvements before the inspector comes to the house. Educate yourself about the details that are included in the inspection such as water damage, roof issues, structural integrity, electrical system, plumbing concerns, and HVAC. One option is to schedule a pre-inspection, which can sometimes be an effective way to improve your standing in negotiations. Or, if these issues come up unexpectedly in the inspection report, then your real estate agent can provide suggestions to negotiate or remedy the situation.
Don't Hide Known Problems You might feel resistant to the idea that it's going to cost money to fix potential problems. But, it's always better to face the truth instead of trying to conceal the information from potential buyers. As the seller, if you are aware of issues with the home, then it is your responsibility to share this information. It always looks better to be upfront about the problems, rather than waiting for the inspector to uncover the concerns.
Selling a home can be a stressful process, but a trusted real estate agent can help you work through the details. If you have questions about buying or selling a home, then our team is here to help. Call today to learn more about these local real estate services.