Savvy purchasers will only commit to a buy if they get a property adequately examined first, even when it’s a seller’s market. The Robin Kencel Group of Compass Realty in Greenwich, Connecticut, associate broker Robin Kencel claims that “today’s purchasers are quite knowledgeable.” Because of this, sellers must understand any areas in which their home can fall short of a purchaser’s expectations. The greater our ability to thwart potential sticking points in negotiations, the better. To achieve that, the sellers should create a checklist for a house inspection to find any potential trouble spots, from deadly mold to possible water leaks. Then, they may perform affordable repairs and clear away unpleasant inspection surprises.
A realtor of Long and Foster Real Estate Inc. in Annapolis, Maryland, Deborah Savoie, claims that “when you own a property, you become oblivious to some of the tiny problems.”
An inspection is an essential step in the process for first-time homeowners. It provides the opportunity to identify any problems with a property and, if necessary, back out of a deal. Your real estate agent could suggest a reputable inspection. Otherwise, seek a qualified expert with references, solid web ratings, and a record with The Better Business Bureau. To see what is covered in a typical examination, ask for a copy of the inspection form. Despite inspectors’ critical service, sellers and buyers should be aware of their limits. According to Bob McKinley, proprietor of Healthy Home Inspections in Baltimore, “our mission is not to renovate a property.” An inspector will only provide suggestions about how to make a house better. “We only check to see if everything (in the home) is in working order. In light of that, the following items should be on your house inspection checklist.
Make sure the lights are on, and the switches are protected.
McKinley claims that during inspections, he frequently runs into the issue of broken lights. A visual examination of the electrical grid is part of a general house inspection. To check if the craftsmanship complies with industry and government requirements, the covering to the electrical box will be withdrawn and the wiring examined. An inspector would advise calling in a certified electrician for additional inspection if any aspect of the electrical system causes them to have any worries. According to McKinley’s research, a buyer should send a certified contractor to examine the light fixture if a light won’t switch on. He argues that we can’t just assume that the lightbulb has burned out. Make sure the covers are intact on all switches and electrical outlets. While electrical outlets in living areas are frequently in good shape, McKinley said he often encounters damaged or missing coverings in basements. A new one may be purchased at the hardware shop for about 49 cents, and installing them yourself can prevent another blemish on the inspection.
Check the smoke alarms and replace the filters.
Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are operational and change the filters in the furnace and air conditioning equipment. Buyers “will think other stuff isn’t maintained either” if they find specific maintenance duties have been ignored, according to J.B. Sassano, president of home renovation business Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly company. Additionally, bear in mind that inspectors can examine the state of any built-in appliances and probably include any glaring maintenance issues in their report.
Sweep the mechanical room clean.
Please clean the technical room and inspect it for leaks or other HVAC system issues. The expensive things will be sought after, according to Sassano. Maintaining cleanliness makes it simple for inspectors to see the connecting pipes of a system clearly and check for necessary safety features.
Make sure that fireplaces and appliances can be checked.
According to McKinley, investigators want to test equipment but sometimes need help because of the weight of the laundry in the washers and dryers. Additionally, they’ll check to verify if a fireplace insert is operational, which necessitates lighting the pilot. He claims that home inspectors will stay out and start a pilot light. A seller should show it to the client if an inspector can only test equipment or a fireplace after a transaction. It is advisable to make sure it’s all accessible and in functioning condition before an inspection because that adds another item to your list of things to complete before closing.
Examine the exterior for flaws.
Sellers should inspect the home outdoors and check for hanging gutters, peeling paint, and loose siding. Savoie says, “They need to see their home as if they’re going to purchase it again.” Then, fix issues before a potential buyer has a problem with them. Standing water or a deteriorating foundation will make an examiner and buyer cautious.
Verify that the doors and windows are in good functioning order.
According to McKinley, windows are among the main complaints for 30 to 40 years old homes. Vinyl windows can get stuck and are challenging to open. But it’s simple to ensure inspectors can open and shut all windows by purchasing affordable silicone touch from a home improvement retailer. Additionally, McKinley advises ensuring that both internal and outside doors are simple to open and close. Sliding door tracks should be cleaned out and lubricated as necessary. Check your wood-framed windows for any mushy or decaying areas if you have any. An inspector will check the operation of the windows as well as for rotten wood and holes in the structure that need to be caulked.
They are removing old water stains.
A stain on the ceilings or walls may persist long after a pipe leak or roofing leak has been repaired. An inspector will utilize a moisture meter to assess the age of a stain if they notice one. However, even if no moisture is discovered, the sheer sight of color might cause people to be wary of a house. McKinley says, “An old stain worries people more than a new stain.” Put painting over stains on your to-do list before inspection because it’s simple.
Observe for mold.
Another issue that can deter potential buyers is mold. Radon used to be a contentious topic, according to Kencel. “Mold seems to be the current problem.” Look for mold in the bathrooms, basements, attics, and garages. Fortunately, a fungicide that can be purchased at home improvement retailers may destroy the majority of mold, according to McKinley. A dehumidifier may be added to a space to aid with moisture management and mold prevention.
Clear out the inside.
Even while an inspector won’t grade your home on how it’s arranged, keeping the place clean and clutter-free will make it easy to access all rooms. According to Savoie, there are frequently quick and easy solutions to deal with a dubious area, so don’t be concerned that tidying up a property would reveal unsavory features. She uses the phrase “you are not required to restain your floor” as an illustration. Just use (the cleaning solution) Old English to clean it. Determine the best way to deal with ugly elements without going over budget with the help of your real estate agent.
Be prepared to share any known problems.
Inform a potential buyer if your evaluation reveals an issue that can’t be quickly addressed. You do not want a prospective customer to think you’re dishonest or are trying to hide problems. While it’s ideal for solving issues before an inspection, it is only sometimes achievable. According to Savoie, “some folks don’t have a couple of thousand bucks right now.” Providing credit at closure so that buyers may make the necessary improvements themselves is an intelligent choice.
After receiving an inspection report, buyers can speak with their broker to decide which flaws, like sticky windows, are ready to accept and which would bring them back to a negotiation table.
