Shawn DeLaat
Selling your home can come with lots of additional work, and a home inspection is a part of that. A home inspection is often a request of the new homebuyers and is used to figure out if and where problems already lie within the home they’re seeking to purchase.
The home inspection is a very important step in the home buying process and there are a few ways that homebuyers can prepare for this. To find out more about preparing for your home inspection, take a look at the information below.
Check The Plumbing And The Furnace
One of the things that a home inspector will look at is the function of the plumbing and heating system in your home. They will look out for things like the pressure from each of the fixtures in your home as well as any signs of water damage from leaks. They may also assess the age of both of the systems and whether they are still functioning correctly.
You can prepare by ensuring that any fixable leaks are taken care of, carrying out basic maintenance checks on your water heater, cleaning your drains, and updating any of your fixtures. Make sure to put in a fresh furnace return filter to show that you take care of your heating system.
Check The Attic, Basement And The Roof
When it comes to the attic and the basement, these may not be spaces you go to very often and as such, are often difficult to get to. This means that before the inspection, you’re going to need to make them as accessible as possible. If you use them for storage, ensure the inspector can move around.
The roof may also need some attention. Look out for things like leaves, moss, algae and loose shingles. An inspector is looking at your roof to ensure it is safe, is not causing any leaks, and is not allowing heat out of the house.
Once you have found these areas, you can get up close and begin clearing anything that could be causing problems inside of the house.
Take A Look For Leaks
We’ve talked about leaks earlier with regards to leaks from your heating and water system, but not all leaks come from this. Check doors and windows for cracks that are allowing moisture into your home and ensure things like your plumbing and appliances are free from leaks too. You can quickly fix leaky windows and doors by replacing the sealing to lock out moisture.
Leaks are a big part of the home inspection as water damage can be detrimental to homes.
Clean Inside And Outside The House
This one is a given. If you’ve got someone coming to inspect your home, it needs to be clean and tidy enough that they can get around it; this means clearing away anything that is going to get in the way during an inspection. Leave the walkways clear and ensure inspectors can get to important places.
It also means giving your house a thorough clean. Make sure areas are free of dust and debris, ensure surfaces have been cleaned properly and wiped down, clean floors, windows, and doors, and do everything you can to present your home in the best possible light.
Check All Electrical Systems
A home inspector wants to make sure that your electrical system is functional, safe, and up to standard. If there are parts of your electrical system you’re concerned about before the inspection, it is worth getting an electrician to take a look before the inspection date.
We would also recommend ensuring that all of the bulbs in your home are working; this will save the inspector the time of confirming whether the bulb has blown out or if there is a deeper electrical problem!
Look Out For Any Cosmetic Touch-Ups & Quick Fixes
Carrying out your own inspection of your home can help you to find any quick touch-ups and fixes that you can carry out before the date of the official inspection. Maybe you could give a room another lick of paint, fix a loose floorboard, or even just give the bathroom an extra good scrub. Everything counts and making your home look nice can show that you’ve cared for it over the years.
Notify The Buyers About Any Known Issues
Lastly, if you know that there have been issues with certain parts of your home that you haven’t been able to fix, then let the inspector know. Don’t wait for them to find it and don’t wait until the last minute. Repairs that are required can be negotiated with an adjustment of your asking price, so letting your inspector know is in your best interests.
Looking To Sell A Home In The Niagara Region? Call Davids & DeLaat!
Are you looking to sell your home located within the Niagara Region? Davids & DeLaat is a team comprised of trusted and committed REALTORS® that can help you to get the best price for your home. We provide professional services and support you every step of the way. Get in contact with Davids & DeLaat today!
