No matter if you list a home "as-is" or not, odds are good you'll need to allow an inspection before you can sell. Our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way, including ensuring you have the information you need to prepare your home for the often mandatory home inspection.
Ridgewood homes for sale are some of the most sought-after in the state, but that doesn't mean a buyer will purchase a home without an inspection. Generally, only investors with "cash in hand" can buy without an inspection. Buyers using financing are required to get an inspection by their lender.
During a home inspection, a licensed inspector will walk through the rooms of the home, which may include a quick check on the attic and any sheds or carports. The inspector takes stock of the condition of every room but is principally concerned with problems related to the roof, electricity, and plumbing.
Let's look at some of the ways a seller can get ready for a home inspection:
Provide Access to Every Area of the House
In most cases, a home inspector cannot remove or move anything to access any part of the home, including the attic. Make sure all doors are unlocked and open. Ideally, carports should be empty—if your inspector can't reach a certain area, the inspection report will make note of that.
Remove Anything Around the Exterior
While most of a home inspection is spent on the interior, the exterior also gets some attention. Inspectors will check the siding, trim, and caulking that makes the doors and windows weatherproof. They will also remove any trash receptacles or stored items that might block certain areas from sight.
Clean Out the Roof
Even if your roof is in good condition, clogged gutters can be a mark against you. The same is true of any unwanted growths on the roof, like moss. Luckily, the most common problems with a roof can be taken care of with a quick cleaning—and if you find a larger issue, take time to call a roofer.
Clean and Sort Your Exterior
When it comes to the interior of the home, an inspector is much more concerned about structural soundness than appearance. Still, a tidy home can make a positive impression that will influence the inspection. When inspectors feel like a home isn't taken care of, they may search for issues they otherwise would not.
Replace Any Dead Bulbs
Dead bulbs are a problem for home inspectors because it isn't immediately obvious whether the issue is the bulb itself, the switch, or the wiring. A dead bulb is a non-issue by itself, but anything that looks like it may be caused by wiring could lead to a separate call to an electrician, adding days and expense to the process.
Make Sure Your Toilets Flush
Even the smallest issues with how the toilets work will be noted on your inspection report. Plus, inspectors tend to draw attention to these problems, making buyers nervous. Give all of your toilets the once-over and resolve those minor worries, such as toilets that run too long after they've been flushed.
Update Your Fuse Box Labels
Fuse box labels tend to get obscured and harder to read over time. Your home inspector may need to check the functionality of certain fuses, so ensure labels are legible.
Contact us to find out more, or get started today.
