Seller Pre-Inspection Checklist |
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While you may not feel some of the items noted are all that important, some home buyers stress over some of the smallest items. If a home inspection has too many smaller items noted, this in itself can cause some nervous buyers to walk. Fogarty Inspection Services has comprised a list of items that you should consider having fixed or checked to ensure the sale of your home goes smoothly.
In the event you have your own concerns, or you are unsure where to start, a Sellers home review or full pre-inspection can help get you home in good shape for the next buyer.
Item Checklist:
1. If it's broke, Fix IT!
If you are aware of any issues or damage to your home, then make it whole. A walk around of both the exterior and interior can allow you to spot areas that may have gone unnoticed. Any noted damage or rotted wood can be repairs, and not draw attention later.
2. Have all your HVAC equipment serviced by a professional.
This is especially important with an older unit. Providing documentation that states all equipment is in good working order can ease concerns with older units.
3. Pump your septic tank
We understand this may not apply to everyone. If you do have a septic system, then having it pumped and checked will once again remove concerns with future buyers. If you can't remember the last time your tank was pumped, it's probably due.
4. Check attics and crawlspaces for concerns.
Spaces like these rarely get looked at, and some people have told us that they hadn't been in their crawl for years. We understand crawlspaces are rare, but these can harbor some of the greatest defects in a home. Attics can also have surprises, such as leaks and animals taking up residence.
5. Obtain permits or receipts of any past major work by contractors.
Calling the municipality can generally provide you with important information, like roofing permit info. Having certain receipts for past work, such as shutter installations or a re-roof, can also be beneficial. Some buyers depend on insurance discounts to make your home affordable to them. Without proper permits or documentation, insurance and mortgage expenses may become too costly and your buyer now has to withdraw.
6. Move personal belongings to make room for the home inspector.
A home inspection requires access to attics, crawlspaces, and storage closets. We will also need to inspect the electrical panel and all other major appliances. Having these areas blocked or covered can prevent the inspector from doing his job, and inconveniences the buyers.
7. Other items to consider.
Going through this list can be benefit you, and possibly prevent a nervous buyer. Your Realtor can also help you with areas of concern the see as well.
In the event you have your own concerns, or you are unsure where to start, a Sellers home review or full pre-inspection can help get you home in good shape for the next buyer.
Item Checklist:
1. If it's broke, Fix IT!
If you are aware of any issues or damage to your home, then make it whole. A walk around of both the exterior and interior can allow you to spot areas that may have gone unnoticed. Any noted damage or rotted wood can be repairs, and not draw attention later.
2. Have all your HVAC equipment serviced by a professional.
This is especially important with an older unit. Providing documentation that states all equipment is in good working order can ease concerns with older units.
3. Pump your septic tank
We understand this may not apply to everyone. If you do have a septic system, then having it pumped and checked will once again remove concerns with future buyers. If you can't remember the last time your tank was pumped, it's probably due.
4. Check attics and crawlspaces for concerns.
Spaces like these rarely get looked at, and some people have told us that they hadn't been in their crawl for years. We understand crawlspaces are rare, but these can harbor some of the greatest defects in a home. Attics can also have surprises, such as leaks and animals taking up residence.
5. Obtain permits or receipts of any past major work by contractors.
Calling the municipality can generally provide you with important information, like roofing permit info. Having certain receipts for past work, such as shutter installations or a re-roof, can also be beneficial. Some buyers depend on insurance discounts to make your home affordable to them. Without proper permits or documentation, insurance and mortgage expenses may become too costly and your buyer now has to withdraw.
6. Move personal belongings to make room for the home inspector.
A home inspection requires access to attics, crawlspaces, and storage closets. We will also need to inspect the electrical panel and all other major appliances. Having these areas blocked or covered can prevent the inspector from doing his job, and inconveniences the buyers.
7. Other items to consider.
- Provide warranty information for past home repairs or appliances if applicable.
- Replace batteries in smoke detectors. If the detectors are 10 years or older, consider replacing the detectors.
- Trim trees and shrubs which touch or overhang the house.
- Apply new caulking and weatherstripping as needed around windows and doors.
- Clean gutters of debris and leaves, repair or replace cracked or broken gutters, downspouts and extensions to ensure proper drainage.
- Replace bathroom caulk or grout were necessary. This will prevent seepage and improve appearance.
- Re-grade soil around the perimeter of the house. This will prevent ponding of water next to the foundation.
- If you have a fireplace, have the chimney professionally cleaned and inspected.
- Repair leaky faucets. If the fixtures are old, consider replacing them.
- Repair or replace any loose door hardware such as doorknobs and hinges.
- Replace any damaged window screens.
- Replace burned-out light bulbs, and wherever possible, replace broken light fixtures.
- Secure any loose safety railings such as on decks or stairways.
- Patch small holes in walls and ceilings and repaint.
- Paint over any aged stains or imperfections. These can raise concerns with buyers over active roof leaks.
- Repair or replace faded or peeling wallpaper.
Going through this list can be benefit you, and possibly prevent a nervous buyer. Your Realtor can also help you with areas of concern the see as well.