Real Estate: Top tips for an inspection-ready home

By Brandon Lussier

Special to The Windham Eagle 

A home inspection gives buyers an unbiased evaluation of the home’s condition. By taking some important steps to prepare the property for inspection, your sellers can avoid some basic problems that might otherwise affect a clean inspection report. Since a home in good condition can command a better price, they will benefit as well.

• Prior to the inspection, repair any damaged steps and walkways and seal cracks in the driveway.
• Re-caulk around exterior doors, windows, check flashing and replace any missing or damaged shingles.

Inside the home, relatively minor fixes can improve the home inspection results.

• Repair leaky faucets and fixtures, and repair grout around tubs and sinks.
• An electrician should inspect receptacles and switches and make any needed replacements or repairs.
• Replace any cracked or broken window glass and loosen any windows that are painted shut.
• Have the fireplace and chimney cleaned and checked by a professional.
• Arrange service appointments for the furnace and central air conditioning so that any issues can be addressed before the home inspection.
• If the home has battery-operated smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, put in fresh batteries and install additional units if any are missing. Hard-wired detectors should be tested as well.

Here are some tips to help the inspection process go smoothly:

• The owner will need to provide keys to any locked areas, and allow access to the attic, crawl space, garage and yard.
• Be sure that the home inspector has access to components such as electrical panels, the main water shut-off and gas meter. Move objects from around the water heater, furnace and central air conditioning unit so that the inspector can reach them unimpeded.
• In cold winter climates, clear walkways of snow and ice for safe access to the home.
• Pets should be taken out of the home or crated for their own safety and that of the home inspector. Dogs in particular can be disruptive, and some may become distressed by having an unfamiliar person in their “territory.”

It’s always a good idea for residents to store small valuables and medications out of sight and in a secure location for peace of mind. One option is for them to simply take these items along when they leave during the inspection.

An inspection-ready home presents itself best for evaluation and makes the entire process go more smoothly.

This article is brought to you courtesy of Pillar to Post Home Inspectors. Contact Brandon with The Lussier Team at (207) 749-3775 for your next home inspection.