If you’re preparing to sell your house, one of the most important things you can do is order a pre-listing home inspection.

Your buyer will be looking for a home that is attractive and well-maintained. Make sure your house is ready for the real estate market. An inspection will identify problems and concerns with the property. Although you’re not required to order a home inspection, the inspection report will help you during the sales process.

Pre-Listing Inspection Reveals the Condition of the Home‏

When purchasing a home, most buyers order an inspection on which their offer will be contingent. In the event of a poor inspection report, the buyer may attempt to renegotiate the listing price or even walk away from the sale. Lengthy negotiations slow the sale for both parties and could lead to costly repairs being required of the seller.

When you order a pre-listing inspection, the report will cover all the same areas as a buyer’s home inspection. However, this inspection allows you to address any issues discovered before you put the house on market. Once your repairs are complete, you can list the property knowing the house is in excellent condition.

Accurate Pricing and an Easier Sale

Your asking price should reflect the home’s condition. A house that is not priced fairly is less likely to sell. Using the information in your pre-listing inspection, work with a real estate agent to determine the value of your home. An accurately priced property is much more likely to receive offers.

A Pre-Listing Home Inspection Helps to Market the Property

‏If you order a pre-listing inspection and the report comes back detailing issues with the roof, you’ll have time to make repairs. A damaged roof can seriously impede the sale of a house so you will need to address it before offering the home for sale. The bad news is that you’ll have to cover the costs of repairing or replacing the roof.‏

‏The good news is that you can highlight this feature in your home’s listing. A new roof adds value and attracts more buyers. It’s a good sign that the home is well-maintained. Although spending extra money may feel like a negative, there are plenty of good reasons to make repairs before listing.‏

Build Trust with the Buyer

Share the information in your home inspection report with potential buyers. They will see that you took time to have an inspection and to make repairs. This will help the buyer feel more confident about making an offer. In addition, because you’re open about the condition of the property, the buyer is more likely to see you as trustworthy and want to do business with you.

You are not required to order a pre-listing inspection on your house, but the information in the report will definitely help you prepare your house for sale. Disclose property issues to your buyer to build trust and create a positive relationship for the transaction.

Premier Property Inspections offers inspection services to customers in and around Delaware County, PA. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an appointment.