In the Denver to Boulder housing market, once a house is under contract the buyer usually schedules their inspection right away. The home inspection can be a worrisome event for both the home buyer and seller, but there are a few things home sellers can do to help it go smoothly.
First, the home should look as nice as it did when the buyers viewed it. That viewing inspired someone to write a contract. Maybe even multiple someones! So why, oh why, would anyone think it is a good plan to leave the house a mess when those same people are about to spend two to three hours checking out every nook and cranny?
If you think that having your house under contract makes it a 'done deal', consider this - the buyer can terminate the contract and get their earnest money back for any reason before the home inspection deadline. They don't even have to give you a reason!
So, here they are, hearing from the inspector about all the things that need to be addressed - and there are ALWAYS numerous items, big and small, that the inspector will find. At the same time, they are not nearly as 'in love' with the house as they were a few days before, because now there are stacks of junk mail on the dining table and dirty clothes strewn about the bedroom and stinky trash left in the kitchen.
The buyers will have a lot to think about - you're only doing yourself a favor by making sure your house still looks as charming as it did during showings.
Here's some pointers - replace all your burned out light bulbs. This includes the basement and garage. That way, the buyers don't have to wonder if the fixture doesn't work because the wiring is bad.
Move your stuff away from the furnace and hot water heater. You should do that anyway.
If your crawlspace hatch is in a closet, remove clothing and shoes to make it easy to access.
Make sure your stovetop and oven are clean. The inspector will test the appliance, and it's best if turning on a burner doesn't set off the smoke alarm.
Know that the inspector will also run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer (if included in the sale). It's best if these appliances are empty at the time.
If there are items that you're already aware of and plan to fix, you might consider leaving the buyer a note. It will give them peace of mind to know that you're going to be responsible about these matters.
Overall, doing your best to make the inspection as easy as possible will be to your own benefit.
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How to buy a house Denver to Boulder.
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I write posts on real estate issues and local events in the Denver metro area, especially those communities between Denver and Boulder, as a public service. My hope is to give people an idea of the ‘flavor’ of our community, in case they’re new or moving to the Denver area.
I am a residential real estate agent, happily helping folks buy a house or sell a house in the beautiful and friendly suburbs northwest of Denver. Read what past clients have said about me.
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