By: Paul Wolfert - "The Move-Up Expert"


When you're getting ready to sell your home, you want to make sure you can get top dollar for it.

Because who wants to get "bottom dollar" for anything? Not me.

You’ve probably cleaned everything multiple times, you’ve cleared out extra junk, and you may have even staged the place so that it looks "picture perfect".

So are you ready? Not quite.

Before you list your home, there are a couple of inspections that you should probably do.

I'll make this list short and sweet. If you'd like the full list of what to do before selling, click here for my full PreSelling Checklist PDF.

1. Roof 'O Rama!

When was the last time you scooted up onto your roof? For most people, the answer is "never".

Well, you should do it, or have it done before a buyer hires an inspector to lug his gear up there. Finding out you problems beforehand is always better than the alternative.

If repairs are necessary on the roof or in the attic, you'll want to get that done before anyone comes to look at it.

Having a newly repaired roof or attic can actually be a selling point for your home if you get it done beforehand. If you have to repair it while your home is listed or while you are under contract, that may do some damage to the amount of money that you can get on the sale.

2. Exterior (Sometimes it's what's outside that counts)

Potential buyers will notice the exterior before they even set foot inside. Never judge a book by its cover? Too bad. People do.

A complete check of the exterior will spot any issues with gutters, downspouts, flashings, doors, windows, and sills.

It may be that your exterior needs only a fresh lick of paint, or it may need substantial repairs.

Either way, an inspection will allow you to take pre-emptive action.

3. Water Works

Water damage can cause huge problems, and it can take a lot of money to repair.

If a potential buyer finds water damage or problems during their inspection before you close, they may lower their offer or pass on the house, and you will have to fix it on your own.

Check any vulnerable areas carefully for visual signs on a leak. You might even consider having a plumber inspect your pipes to make sure you haven’t missed anything.

4. Bugging Out

An army of marauding ants at your doorway or other pests scurrying across the floor of your basement is the last thing you want when potential buyers view your home. As such, it is vital that you call in a pest control company to inspect for pests. Pest control companies can inspect for infestations, eradicate them, and monitor for future problems.

When preparing to sell your home, you particularly want an inspection for termites and other pests that could damage the structural integrity of your home.

Being able to show that your home is free of pests can be a big selling point, especially for those with "Entomophobia" (fear of bugs and insects).

5. Bring the Heat!

Your furnace may be working just fine, but if it is getting on in age, you may need to have it serviced or replaced.

Having a malfunctioning furnace is not only a problem for living in a home, but it also doesn’t make anyone want to buy your home.

It’s recommended that your furnace and HVAC system be inspected at least once a year, so make that time right before you list.

Bottom Line

Ultimately, the point of these inspections is to maximize the value of your home and keep any potential buyers from lowering their offer or backing out of the buying process.

Selling a home can be stressful enough without having to deal with repairs, so it gets it out of the way before you list your home.

Click HERE to download my complete pre-selling plan/checklist for free.

-Paul

References:

8 Ways to Boost Your Michigan Home Resale Value

Roof Certifications and Roof Inspections

Find and Repair Hidden Plumbing Leaks

Termite Pest Control

How Often Should You Have a Furnace Inspection?