How to Assure a Good Inspection Report on Your Home

How to Assure a Good Inspection Report on Your Home

Selling your home involves a series of crucial steps, and preparation is key to attracting potential buyers and ensuring a smooth process. One often overlooked aspect is preparing your home for the inevitable inspection. While I don’t recommend a pre-inspection, it’s wise to conduct your own assessment and address any potential issues before they become deal-breakers.

Home inspections can be exhaustive, with reports sometimes stretching to over 80 pages. Inspectors tend to be thorough, so it’s important to prevent minor issues from becoming major concerns that scare away buyers. Here are some common items you should check in your home before the inspection:

1. Air Returns and Vents: Clean your air vents and registers to prevent them from appearing moldy or dirty. Even simple mildew and dirt can give buyers the wrong impression.
   
   
2. Gutters: Ensure your gutters are clean and functioning properly to avoid any concerns about leaks.
   
   
3. Windows: If you have double-pane windows, check for broken seals or dirt build-up. This is a frequent finding on inspection reports.
   
   
4. AC Units: Arrange for your HVAC service provider to inspect and ensure that all cooling systems are in working order. An inspector can’t open the unit, so addressing any issues beforehand can save time and reduce buyer concerns.
   
   
5. Pool Pumps and Heaters: Make sure your pool equipment is running smoothly and test the pool heater to ensure it meets standards.
   
   
6. Roof: If your roof is older, it’s likely to be flagged by the inspector. Have a professional address any missing shingles and consider obtaining a warranty for several years.
   
   
7. Signs of Roof Leaks: Investigate any ceiling stains to determine if they resulted from a roof leak or inadequate flashing. Address these issues before the inspection.
   
   
8. Leaks Under Sinks: Examine the cabinets under all sinks to verify there are no current or past leaks.
   
   
9. Light Bulbs: Replace any burnt-out light bulbs, as inspectors may note these as potential electrical problems.
   
   
10. Fireplaces and Remotes: Ensure that all fireplaces and items with remotes have working batteries. Inspectors could flag them as potential issues otherwise.
    
    
11. Generator: If you have a generator, confirm that it’s operating through its test cycles and in good condition.
    
    
12. Stucco and Window Sealants: For stucco and stone homes, regular caulking maintenance is essential. An inspector may call out insufficient caulking and neglecting it can lead to moisture issues.

At Corcoran Ferester, we’re committed to helping sellers maximize their home’s value. We work closely with our clients to prepare their homes for the market, facilitating a faster sale and achieving optimal pricing. Preparing your home for inspection is just one of the many ways we assist our clients in the selling process.