10 Tips For Sellers to Shine During the Inspection
General Home Inspections are an important part of the home selling process. Belinda Spillman reminds us, in the article below, that home inspectors work for the Buyer.
Inspections are completed during the Option Period negotiated by the Buyer and Seller. It's important to remember that Texas Buyers have the unrestricted right to terminate the contract during the Option Period.
The Buyer and the Buyer's Agent are usually present for all or part of the inspection and receive a detailed report of the inspector's findings, along with photos. It's advantageous for Sellers to prepare their home for the inspection and make certain that the home looks its best for the Buyer. Check out the tips below and tailor the list for your home inspection.
A buyer has made an offer on your home and you are now UNDER CONTRACT. The next phase of the process is the home inspection. The inspector works for the BUYER so be sure to make your home shine!
Here are some simple tips to help eliminate the number inspection items.
- If the property is vacant, make sure the utilities are ON (including the water).
- Take your pets out of the property for the inspection.
- Make sure all of your lights are functioning. This may be as simple as replacing a light bulb. Don’t let the inspector note that a light fixture is inoperable simply because the bulb is burned out.
- Repair or replace any broken items (which you’ve been meaning to get to). This can include door locks, windows, screens, etc.
- Test smoke detectors and make sure carbon monoxide detectors are installed within 15 feet of all sleeping quarters.
- Clear the perimeter around your house so the foundation and drainage can be inspected without issue.
- Clean your furnace thoroughly. Replace the filter and scrub down the furnace inside and out. A shop vac usually works great for removing the dust build up inside the furnace. Make it shine!
- Trim tree limbs from house. The inspector will be looking at the roof and the gutters. Make sure the tree limbs are cut back so this can be easily accessed.
- Make sure all components are accessible to the inspector. This includes the furnace, H20 Heater, A/C, crawl space, and attic.
- Make sure your appliances are ready to be run. If the washer and dryer are included in the sale, make sure they do not have clothes in them. The inspector will check the operation on these appliances. Also insure that the dishwasher is empty. This will be run through a cycle. Clean your oven. This will be tested as well.
Clean like your in-laws are visiting. The buyer will be spending 2 to 4 hours hanging out in your home as the inspector does his job. Make sure your home sparkles inside and out so they remain excited about purchasing your home.
Belinda Spillman
Aspen Lane Real Estate
Managing Broker/Owner
Metro Brokers Marina Square
(303) 884-2026
www.AspenLaneRealEstate.com
