How Both Sides can Prepare for a Home Inspection

July 10th, 2014

home inspection

Regardless of whether it is a law in your area or not, it’s always a good idea to have your home inspected.  There are a lot of things you can do to help prepare for a home inspection.

How the Seller Can Prepare:

Most of the preparation will fall into the hands of the seller- they are trying to convince others to buy their house, so they do not want any road bumps in their way.

  • Before you even get into the larger projects, fix smaller ones like loose handles, light bulbs that went out, and that leaky faucet. Then, you can move on to the bigger projects, like your roof.
  • Many people forget that their house needs to look clean, as well. If someone were to come in and see a dirty home, their first impression would be that it wasn’t well taken care of- and won’t look very good in the eyes of the person doing your inspection.
  • Be ready for the scheduled appointment at least half an hour early. An inspection can take up to three hours, so it’s a good idea to have as few hang-ups as possible.
  • If you have already moved out of the house, make sure that amenities like water and gas are hooked up so the inspector can make sure everything is in order for the buyers.
  • If there are any outdoor electrical outlets or other units, make sure they are accessible. Trim bushes and hedges, and make sure to move any trash cans.
  • If you have had anything repaired recently in your home, keep the receipts to show the inspector- this will show him just how up to date certain features are.
  • If at all possible, allow space and time for the inspector to do their work. This will allow them to work quicker and concentrate better- particularly if there are young children in the home.

How the Buyer Can Prepare:

While there isn’t much, there is some that the buyer can do to make sure the efforts are productive.

  • Attending the inspection will give you an in-depth look at the house and learn your way around it.
  • Make a list of questions or concerns you would have about the property.
  • Understand that every home will have its flaws, so expect some imperfections. Be proactive in the repair of the home!