What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection and Why You May Want One
You may already be familiar with the need for scheduling a home inspection if you’re buying a home as a way to get more information about the property. But if you are planning on selling your home, it may also be a good idea to get your home inspected before putting it on the market. Although pre-listing seller inspections are not currently as popular as buyer inspections, there are certain benefits for sellers who get their homes inspected. Keep reading for more information about why you may want your home inspected before you sell.
What is a pre-listing inspection?
A pre-listing inspection is a home inspection that a seller schedules before listing their home. This kind of inspection is similar to a standard inspection that a buyer requests before purchasing a home; but, the major difference between the two is that the seller pays for the inspection. A pre-listing inspection includes detailed observations of a seller’s home’s major systems: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, foundation and structure, floors and windows, roof and siding. The inspection can reveal what repairs the seller can make before listing.
When a seller wants to better understand their home’s condition before a potential buyer arranges an inspection, a pre-listing inspection can be a good strategy to avoid surprises and handle major repairs before selling. A home in good condition is usually more attractive to buyers than a home that needs many expensive repairs, and a pre-listing inspection will reveal what fixes should happen before showing the home to potential buyers.
What are the advantages of a pre-listing inspection?
The primary benefit of a pre-listing inspection is it may help to determine a price to sell or when to accept an offer. A pre-listing inspection can offer a seller the peace of mind that comes with a more complete knowledge of their home’s condition. And, more importantly, it can arm seller’s with the facts they need to counter a buyer’s requests before making an offer or signing a purchase agreement. Once a seller is aware of major issues or repairs that need to be made, a seller has more time to prepare to address possible fixes, or to prepare for negotiations with buyers about those issues.
What happens during and after a pre-listing inspection?
During a pre-listing inspection, a seller hires a home inspector to examine every component of a home – from foundation and structure, to roofing and systems like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. The inspector provides detailed descriptions of the condition of these components and identifies possible problems that may need repairs. The cost of the inspection varies based on the size of the home, but in the Seattle area prices start at around $500.
After the inspection, the inspector gives the seller a detailed, unbiased report about the home’s condition. The information in that report can equip a seller to better negotiate a purchase price or to plan for necessary repairs that can make the home more competitive on the market.
If you’re planning on selling your home and would like the peace of mind that comes with a pre-listing inspection, call South Sound Inspections today.
