Acing your home inspection
Much is being made of the fact that South Florida is currently in a sellers’ market, with buyers eager to snap up listings. However, a home inspection report with too many red flags, can still cause a potential buyer to reconsider and possibly back out of the sale.
The inspector will be looking at the structural features of the house – the roof, walls and foundations. Also being assessed are the plumbing, electrical and air conditioning systems. While the inspection job is an objective one, the roof leaks or it doesn’t, inspectors are human. The overall appearance of the home adds a subjective component that can have quite an impact on the inspection process.
An attractive, clean, well-ordered home is definitely going to make the inspector’s job easier, more pleasant, than if he or she has to cope with dirt, clutter and untold safety hazards. Of course, the most delightful décor will not act as a smoke screen for structural or systems defects that will certainly show up on the inspection report.
Before listing your property, you will have done your own inspection and taken care of any serious problems that will affect the sale. It is well worth bringing in professional help to fix a leaking roof, mold, faulty electrical wiring, defective plumbing or any safety hazard that will be negatively assessed on inspection. Once repairs have been made, leaks fixed, repair and re-paint damaged or discolored walls or ceiling.
For other less serious issues, here are a few tips to facilitate the inspection process and help attract top dollar for your property.
First impressions count. If needed, pressure clean your roof, driveway and pathways. A touch of paint, new plantings and a mown lawn all heighten your home’s curb appeal and create a good impression.
Take care of minor repairs. Make sure that smoke alarms are working, secure shaky handrails on indoor and outdoor stairs, replace spent light bulbs and check that garage door openers work. Fix dripping faucets, clogged drains and running toilets. Check that sliding doors work smoothly and window and door locks are functional and secure. Change air-conditioner filter, if needed
Clean, declutter and let the light in. Open drapes and blinds and turn lamps on in rooms that lack natural light. When cleaning and decluttering, aim to make passage through your home for the inspector easy and problem free. Appliances should be clean and in good working order. Clear the sink of dishes and empty the dishwasher. Utilities need to be connected so that the inspector can check plumbing and the electrical systems.
Safety. Clear up trip and fall problems such as extension cords snaking across the floor, clutter in walkways, uneven stairs and loose carpets, poor lighting on stairs and walkways.
Time and care invested in making your home inspection ready will have a positive effect on the inspection outcome. On the on the day of the inspection, arrange to take your family – and pets- out for some nice, relaxing family time knowing - you’ve got this!
To buy or sell your place in the Florida sun call me at 954-295-9282.