You have accepted an offer on your house and it is time for the home inspection.  Don't be nervous, be prepared.  Here are a few tips to make a the inspection go more smoothly:

• First of all, leave the utilities connected, even if the house is vacant. A home inspector requires access to the water, gas, and electricity to be able to test the appliances, furnace, hot water heater, air conditioner, plumbing, etc.  If the inspector arrives and the utilities are turned off, the inspection will have to be rescheduled.

• Give your house a good cleaning before the inspection.  It creates a good impression of your house on everyone who will be present at the inspection, the buyer, the buyer's agent, and the inspector. 

• Gather all the receipts and repair documents to show the inspector any repairs you have already taken care of. These items should show the dates when appliances and other items such as the furnace were last serviced. 

• The inspector needs to have clear access to the garage, attic, furnace, hot water heater, and electrical panel so may sure to clear the way or any clutter that may obstruct the inspector and delay the inspection process. 

• Make plans to leave the house during the inspection!  This is a much appreciated courtesy since it is an uncomfortable situation for the buyers, the buyers agent, and the inspector if the homeowner is present during the inspection. If you have kids and/or pets take them with you and plan on being gone for up to 3 hours. 

-photo http://www.flickr.com/people/feralboy/

www.shirleyparks.com