There are certain inspections that will be required for anyone selling their home. Your realtor can help find good inspectors or you can choose to hire someone on your own. Buyer’s contracts usually have the right to have certain of these inspections written in the contract. Pre-inspections will help determine what will need to be done before you sell your home and avoid hidden problems that might pop up later. The type of inspection will determine whether the buyer or seller pays for the inspection.

The Roof and the Exterior of the House

Sellers will want to have the roof and gutters inspected before putting the house on the market. Take care of needed repairs immediately. Do not try to hide or cover up outside damage. Make sure holes or leaks are taken care of and loose tiles are repaired. Repair loose gutters and rain spouts. Make sure the siding is in good repair and replace any worn siding.

General Inspection

The seller will want to make sure everything on the inside is in good working order. The furnace, air conditioning, plumbing and any major appliances being sold with the house need to be inspected. You do not want the furnace breaking down two months after the sale—this might get you sued by the new owners. Double check vents, door frames and windowsills. Make sure lights have working light bulbs in them.

Termites and Wood Damage

Termite damage can be devastating. Be sure to have your home inspected for termites and take care of any damage up front. If damage is found after you sell the house you can be liable for the damages. Not good news when you think you are done with the home.

Planning Ahead

Simply doing your research and having your home inspected ahead of time can bring great piece of mind. You will know exactly what is going to be found on any inspections the buyer initiates. Problems can be taken care of beforehand, allowing the sale to go through smoothly on both ends. The cost will be minimal if repairs are dealt with immediately avoiding penalties or even being sued later on.

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