Sellers: 4 Times You Should Get a Home Inspection

A home inspection is the buyer’s responsibility – right? After all, they’re the ones making the huge purchase.

Not so fast. Sometimes, it makes a lot of sense for a seller to get an inspection before they ever list their home.

4 Times Sellers Need a Home Inspection

There are some instances when a home inspection is the right idea for sellers. If you’re selling, pay attention to these scenarios and make the right call before you list your property for sale.

1. You’re Unsure Whether Your Home Has Any Problems

As a seller, you have to disclose all issues (that you know of) to any buyer. If problems with your home pop up during the buyer’s inspection, there’s a very good chance you’ll have to pony up unexpectedly.

Of course, this is not an ideal scenario. If you’re at all unsure whether your home has any hidden issues, it’s best to find out before listing the property for sale. Then, you can address whatever comes up and fix it so you won’t have to deal with it later when you’re trying to close.

2. You Want an Edge Over the Competition

Getting a pre-listing home inspection done shows buyers that you’re committed, forthright, and honest. It can attract buyers as a result. Plus, it can help upsell the overall quality of your home, especially if you had issues fixed.

Most buyers want to know they’re making a sound investment, no matter what it is they’re purchasing. Your home will skew toward that side if you invest in an inspection.

3. You Want to Save Time and Money for the Final Sale

Issues that pop up during a buyer’s inspection can slow down a sale. Depending on the scale of the problem, you’ll probably have to renegotiate the offer. Plus, if you’re responsible for fixes before you can close, these are unexpected costs you may not have prepared for.

Bottom line: Get a pre-listing inspection and you’ll bypass any unexpected grief later, when you’re on the brink of making a sale and time is of the essence.

4. You Have Blind Spots

After living in a home for a while, we can develop blind spots about its condition. That leaky faucet that we’re perfectly fine living with might be a warning sign for a buyer. The same goes for the broken front steps, the non-functioning chimney, or a million other issues both big and small.

If you’re still looking at your beloved home through rose-colored glasses, an inspection can help you see it for what it truly is: real estate. Once the problems get outlined in writing, that might be the kick you need to make it a solid purchase. That way, you can move on while getting the most bang for your buck.

Sellers, You Might Need a Pre-Listing Home Inspection

A home inspection isn’t just for buyers. Sellers can benefit from the investment, too. In the end, getting one done may even make a better sale more likely.