When was the last time your home was inspected by a professional? Most homeowners have an inspection during the buying process and never hire a home inspector again until it’s time to move to their next house. Unfortunately, that means problems may go unnoticed for years. If you’re selling your home, read on to learn about the benefits of ordering a pre-listing inspection before placing your home on the market.
Pre-Listing Inspections Make the Negotiation Process Easier
When a prospective buyer makes an offer on your home, there’s a good chance it will be contingent on the results of a home inspection. If they find a significant repair or issue during the buyer’s inspection, it often leads to negotiations that drag on and cut into your profits.
A pre-listing inspection gives you information on what repairs are needed so you can tackle them before they show up in a buyer’s inspection report. It also allows your real estate agent to price your home more accurately the first time.
Learn More About the Condition of Your House
When you live in your home, it’s easy to miss potential issues and ignore minor problems. While these defects may not bother you, they could be deal-breakers to potential buyers. A home inspector will walk through your home and document its strengths and weaknesses. At the end of the inspection, they will provide you with a detailed report of your roadmap for repairs before putting your house on the market.
A Pre-Listing Inspection Helps You Avoid Another Inspection
Many housing markets are competitive, incentivizing buyers to act quickly to place an offer. A pre-listing inspection improves the buyer’s confidence, as they have proof that you’ve maintained your home and either made repairs or disclosed them ahead of time. Because a professional home inspector also conducts a buyer’s inspection, some prospective buyers will waive their inspection and accept your results. This often speeds up the sale and limits further negotiations.
Gain Control Over Repairs
If you don’t order a pre-listing inspection, the buyer will request one before closing. You might be in for a surprise when the home inspector uncovers damage, potential issues, and repairs that must be made before the sale goes through. At this point, the buyer gets to decide what repairs they want to be completed and which contractors to hire. This can easily cost you two or three times as much as if you did it yourself after a pre-listing inspection.
A Pre-Listing Inspection Helps Build the Buyer’s Trust
Every buyer wants reassurance that the property they are about to purchase was cared for and is free from expensive-to-fix problems. A pre-listing inspection demonstrates your responsibility and willingness to do right by the buyer. This may entice buyers who would otherwise be undecided to come for a showing or make an offer.
A pre-listing inspection will ultimately save you time, money, and stress when selling your home. Look into scheduling one with a licensed home inspector and enjoy a smoother sale.
Porch Light Home Inspections provides home inspections in the central Oregon area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.