Who needs a home inspection?
Many sellers consider a pre-listing home inspection to be borrowing trouble. They imagine that "what they don't know can't hurt them." However, when a prospective buyer’s inspection turns up unpleasant surprises - surprises that could cause a confirmed sale to fall through - these same sellers reconsider their pre-listing decision.
What does a home inspection include?
A licensed home inspector will search your home for signs of common problems and safety hazards. They will look over the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems for items and areas of concern. They will search for evidence of pests, water damage, or structural weaknesses.
What if my home inspection reveals a problem?
As a seller, you want to net as much money as possible at closing. The truth is, as a result of natural wear and tear, building and design quirks, or undisclosed damage from previous owners, every home has room for improvement. That’s ok! A pre-listing inspection makes you aware of these concerns, enabling you to make informed repair and pricing decisions before placing your home on the market.
Won’t the buyer require their own inspection?
If they are smart they will. Most buyers do. But then, when they find unaddressed or undisclosed problems, they start throwing around words like “monetary concession” and “closing delay” or even “contract cancellation.” Why put yourself and your family through that?
Be informed and proactive, and enter negotiations from a position of certainty and strength. Order your own home inspection before you list your home for sale.