Home Inspection for Sellers
Professional home inspectors evaluate the condition of a home for a prospective buyer. The buyer typically pays for the inspection, and uses the findings to address any issues with the home before settlement.
What to Expect as a Seller
During a home inspection, the inspector examines the house's condition—inside and out, from plumbing to roof condition. The inspection itself usually takes between one and three hours. The home inspector will explain the process to the buyer, and invite him or her to come along during the inspection.
Chances are, if you’ve lived in your home for a long time, there are things you’ve “learned to live with.” For example, when your doorbell stopped working, did you replace it or simply let your visitors knock?” Or perhaps you have a light fixture that only works every other time you flip a switch on. These are the little things the home inspector will take note of.
While the idea of having both a professional and a prospective buyer look at every minute detail of your home may make you nervous, the home inspectors are professionals who keep in mind that no house is perfect. Even though they make a note of everything, the big picture matters more than the little details. Plus, you can do your best to get your house in tip-top shape before you even put it on the market!
Results
At the end of the inspection, the inspector summarizes his or her findings, answers the buyer's questions, then gives the buyer a signed report of the findings. This report is the buyer’s property—no other party is entitled to see it unless the buyer allows them to.
Before putting your home on the market, feel free to have a sneak peek below at what you’ll be “graded” for. The more prepared you are ahead of time for a home inspection, the more likely you’ll pass with flying colors!
The inspector will evaluate:
- Foundation and framing
- Roof condition
- Heating and cooling systems
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing and bathrooms
- Appliances included with the home
- Drainage from gutters
- Interior and exterior condition
Additional inspections can be ordered for:
- Septic systems
- Wood-destroying insects
- Chimney condition
- Pools and spas
- Barns and other outdoor structures
- Fences and gates
- Exterior insulation & finish systems (EIFS)
