Although many sellers look at inspectors as the bearers of only bad news, there also are some positive factors. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, a “home inspection can give [sellers] the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.”
In addition, home inspections can ensure a smooth transaction and help sellers receive the asking price. If an inspector finds major issues, however, a seller might be caught off guard and unsure of how to react. Here, RISMedia offers three tips for easily navigating the home-inspection process.
- Prepare for the inevitable. When the home inspector comes through and begins pointing out flaws, many homeowners take the comments personally. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that you and your house are ready for inspection. Before the inspection process, it can be helpful to do a walk-through of the home to point out potential issues that might need repair, such as a stain from a leak or a faulty switch. If you’re already aware of potential issues, it won’t come as a shock when the inspector points them out, and it will give you the opportunity to fix it preemptively.
- Be proactive. Before the inspector arrives, decide if you plan to be in the house during the inspection. If the buyers also will be attending the inspection, the best thing for both parties is for you to stay away and occupied for the duration. If you’re concerned that you won’t be able to answer questions or explain an issue with the home, you can leave your contact information at the house and let the buyers or inspector know they can call with any pressing questions. If the buyers will not be attending the inspection, it could be beneficial for you to be onsite. As the inspector surveys the house, you can explain about the mysterious stain on the ceiling or why an appliance was installed in a certain manner.
- Remain calm. When the time comes for the actual inspection process, take a minute to remember that the home inspector is simply doing his or her job. This can keep you grounded, even when the inspector comments on the improper installation of your favorite fixture. If you’re present during the inspection, be warned that many real estate deals fall through when buyers and sellers become tangled in tense situations. Taking the emotion out of the situation can be beneficial to all parties. If you start to get worked up about the inspection or a comment made by a potential buyer, try to remember why you’re selling your home in the first place. As much as possible, focus your attention on the bigger picture and your end goal: getting the best return on their investment and finding a new home.