SPOTLIGHT:

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

Preparing for a home inspection is important for sellers to ensure the process goes smoothly and to avoid any surprises that could affect the sale. Sellers can use these guidelines to ensure their home is ready for its close-up. Here's a checklist of things a seller should do to get their home ready for an inspection:

1. Make sure all utilities are on: Ensure all utilities (water, gas, electricity) are turned on. Your home inspector will need these on to check systems like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.
2. Clear access to key areas: Make sure your basement, attic, and crawl spaces are accessible, and items like the water heater and electrical panel are not blocked by storage or other items.
3. Address small repairs: Fix any minor repairs that could cause red flags. This includes ensuring all lightbulbs are working, leaky faucets and fixtures, grout around tubs and showers, and caulking around windows and exterior doors.
4. Test systems prior: Testing major systems (heating, plumbing, electrical, etc.), smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and appliances (dishwasher, oven, dryer, etc.) to make sure they are working properly.
5. Limit your presence: While it’s not necessary, many sellers choose to leave the home during the inspection to allow the inspector to do their job without distractions. If you decide to stay, remain respectful of the inspector’s work.
6. Keep pets away: If possible, remove pets from the home or crate them for safety.
7. Secure personal items: Store medications, valuables, or private documents securely and out of sight.
8. Stay flexible with timing: Sometimes a home inspection can take longer than expected, depending on the size of the home and systems involved. Be ready for the possibility that your inspector may need additional time to complete a thorough inspection. 

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