When you’re selling a property, you want to make a good impression on the buyer.  The inspection report plays a big role in the sales process so it’s important to prepare for a home inspection. Once your buyer has signed a purchase agreement, he or she will schedule an inspection. The findings in the report could potentially affect the final sales price.

Prepare for an Inspection by Tidying up the Home

Because the inspector will need to inspect all areas of your home, make sure the house is clean and accessible. Keep the rooms organized and clutter-free. While you’re cleaning, look for any signs of damage and make minor repairs.

Provide Full Access to the Home

Make sure utility rooms, the roof, and the garage are open and able to be inspected. A successful home inspection entails examining visible aspects of the home, and that is only possible if the inspector can access each section of the property, including outbuildings. Make sure that you offer keys, door codes, and garage door openers and provide instructions and keys for accessing any other systems or areas.

Compile Relevant Documents

Assemble paperwork documenting significant upgrades and repairs completed in your home, like a roof replacement, furnace repair, or HVAC system update. This information will help the inspector write a comprehensive and factual report. It will also let the buyer know when these components were installed, replaced, or repaired.

Replace Bulbs to Prepare for a Home Inspection

A lighting fixture that doesn’t work could be an issue with the wiring or merely the result of a defective bulb. If you fail to replace burned-out bulbs before the inspection, the inspector may note in the inspection report that the light would not power on, leaving the buyer uncertain of the issue.

Find Leaks and Water Damage

A home inspector will look for signs of water damage. Before the inspection, get ahead of any problems by making repairs. When checking for leaks, look under the sinks and appliances, and around showers, faucets, bathtubs, and toilets. Water damage may be visible on walls, floors, and ceilings. Call a professional to repair any plumbing problems and keep your invoices and receipts on hand to show the inspector the work that was completed.

Leave Home for a Few Hours

Your presence during the inspection may impede open dialogue between the inspector and the buyer, so it is best to leave the house to allow the inspector to do their job. Run errands, do the grocery shopping, or, if you have pets, take them out to the dog park. It’s best if your animals aren’t left in the home during the inspection.

Common Repairs Required After a Home Inspection

The outcomes of a home inspection are not “pass” or “fail”. The inspection documents the condition of the house and the report will recommend things that should be replaced or repaired. Depending on the findings of the inspection, you may be asked to make repairs. Common fixes that are requested include building code violations, structural defects, and safety issues. A home inspection may also uncover problems with the roof, septic system, HVAC system, radon, plumbing line, and electrical systems.

Checkpoint Home Inspections provides home inspection services to the North Coast of Oregon. Contact us to schedule an appointment.