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Prepping Your Home for Inspection

Man climbing ladder for roof repair

Home inspections are an important process for buyers and sellers alike. During a home inspection, a qualified inspector will examine and evaluate the home for sale from top to bottom, making certain that every aspect is functioning properly.

While buyers generally order a home inspection before closing, it’s best to get a head start on the process if you’re selling. It’s worth noting that some buyers do base their closing on the results of a home inspection.

Therefore, sellers will want to have as few issues as possible listed on the home inspection report. You can do that by preparing your house ahead of the home inspector’s visit.

Here’s how:

Remove Obstructions

Home inspectors need to be able to move around your house and access windows, doors, water heater, electrical panels, the HVAC equipment, the basement, and the attic. Pack away any items or toys lying around; remove boxes or furniture that’s in the way.

Check Toilets

Functionality is another aspect that home inspectors will check. Flush all of the toilets in your home and observe its flushing power and water pressure. Don’t forget to check if the toilet water gurgles or if the water comes up elsewhere.

Replace Broken Light Bulbs

Home inspectors also test whether the lights work or not. If they don’t work, the home inspector will need to figure out whether it’s a burnt-out light bulb or an electrical problem. Test all the light fixtures around your house and make sure to replace broken bulbs.

Inspect the Roof

One of the important parts of the home that the inspector will check is the roof. Inspecting the roof in advance can alert you to possible problems. Start by looking at the roof from the ground. Take note of any signs of damage, aging, moss, or algae. Be on the lookout for missing, buckled, or curled shingles as well.

Another way to check your roof is by assessing your attic. If water has leaked through, you’ll see unmistakable signs of damage such as mold, rot, and darkened water stains.

Check for Water Damage

Water damage is another issue that’s on the home inspector’s checklist. If not addressed immediately, water damage could weaken your home’s wooden structures, attract insects and bugs, and affect your electrical system. Fortunately, there are several ways to check for water damage so that it may be fixed right away. Telling signs include dark or wet spots in the ceiling, puddles around pipes, drywall cracks, and a damp or musty smell.

Get Rid of Pests

Pests are an issue that should be dealt with before the home inspection. Termites, carpenter ants, spiders, and rodents are the common pests that you’ll encounter. To check for signs of pests in your home, look for droppings, damaged plants, grease marks, or evidence of nesting. Damaged wood or one that sounds hollow, for example, is a sign of a termite infestation.

Keep the House in Good Condition

Let your Winthrop home for sale make a good impression. Keep it clean, tidy, and in top condition ahead of closing. This can be achieved by cleaning every room, storing your belongings properly, and preventing clutter from piling up. Keeping your house in good condition also includes undertaking necessary repairs, which will result in a glowing home inspection report.

Are you in the process of selling your home? Let us at Coldwell Banker Winthrop Realty help you out. We have more than 20 years of experience with Winthrop, Washington real estate. Get in touch with us today at 509.996.2121 or send an email to info(at)cbwinthrop(dotted)com.