Consider A Seller's Home Inspection

More and more sellers are choosing to get a home inspection as a competitive tool, and to help ensure that that the selling process goes more smoothly, with fewer surprises. This should be done before the house is listed. Although these are by no means complete lists, the typical home inspection includes an evaluation of the site, the exterior, the interior, the systems such as HVAC, electrical and plumbing and the building components. It does not include radon, mold, termites, the septic system, wells or water quality issues, which must be evaluated by specialists. If you have concerns about any of these matters, rest assured the buyer’s inspector will find the problems. It’s smart selling to identify issues yourself and decide how to address them.

One major benefit of a seller’s home inspection is that it provides an unbiased third-party report on the condition of the house. Having the inspection also could:

•  Improve your ability to set a more accurate listing price reflecting the true condition of the house.
•  Justify a higher listing price, if the house is in superb condition.
•  Prove your thoroughness in completing the mandatory disclosure forms.
•  Demonstrate your candor by making the report available.
•  Eliminate the need to disclose defects that are identified and repaired by attaching invoices for completed work.
• Control the cost and timeframe for making repairs.
•  Preclude the buyer from using inflated costs as a negotiating tool.
• Create a powerful marketing tool that makes your house stand out from the competition and increase buyer confidence from the outset.
•  Help the buyer make a faster, better informed decision about your house, with less likelihood of buyer’s remorse.
• Prevent closings from being delayed or deals from falling through when the buyer’s inspector finds a problem.
• Keep small details from disrupting or derailing otherwise smooth negotiations.
  

The cost of a home inspection is based on the age and square footage of the house, but today generally is between $300 and $400. If you have any suspicions or concerns, a seller’s inspection and specialty inspections are worth considering. The confidence and peace of mind they can provide are priceless.

Smart Selling Tip:

Even if the house is in superb condition and has been diligently maintained, smart sellers consider the benefits of a seller’s home inspection as a powerful competitive and negotiating tool.