Selling a home can be a long process, with many steps to follow. One of these is the home inspection, during which the prospective buyers will hire a professional to look at your home and ensure the structure and systems are sound. This inspection can make or break your sale, so it’s best to be prepared for it.

How Should You Prepare for a Home Inspection?

1. Understand the Inspector’s Job

A home inspection will reveal any issues in the roof, walls, or foundation, and it'll also ensure the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are all working. The inspector may additionally check to see that appliances, such as garbage disposals or water softeners, are operational. Finally, they'll look for signs of rot, mold, or leaks, and they'll also check the exterior, including the siding and gutters. The results of the inspection can lead to a smooth sale, a re-write of the contract based on needed repairs, or the termination of the sale.

2. Clear Access

Before the inspection, make sure the inspector will have access to the HVAC unit, basement, attic, and other necessary areas. Clearing away clutter makes for a smoother inspection and makes the home look more appealing to potential buyers. Make sure the exterior of the house is accessed easily from all sides, and that the inspector can get close to gutters, windows, and doors.

3. Check the Roof

Know the status of your roof before an inspector comes. Get all damage repaired, and have the roof, gutters, and downspouts cleaned. Be proactive and replace broken parts, as they will surely be found in the inspection.

4. Make Simple DIY Fixes

Replace lightbulbs, fix a leaky tap or running toilet, update the labels in the fusebox, turn on all the pilot lights, and repair any broken cabinetry or steps. Don't ignore even little items such as a door without weatherstripping or a sticky lock. You may be asked to fix these features anyway, so be proactive to present the house in the best light possible. 

5. Clean

Although cleanliness isn't the inspector's focus, first impressions are powerful. A dirty, cluttered home suggests that the property may not be taken care of, which might unintentionally bias an inspector's opinion of the house. 

 

If you need a reliable, trustworthy home inspector, contact New Home Inspectors in Huntington Station, NY. They have over 30 years of experience in the contracting field and know the inspection business inside and out. Their team of fast, dependable, and thorough inspectors offers quick turnarounds and excellent communication for clients throughout Long Island. Call (631) 368-1800 to schedule an inspection, or visit their website for a full list of their services.