Pre-Listing Home Inspections When Selling a Home 

In today’s competitive real estate market, sellers may need to look for more than one strategy to get their homes sold. One tip – a pre-listing inspection, could help sellers get an upper edge on the competition. In markets where sellers outnumber buyers, every advantage counts. A pre-listing inspection isn’t just about identifying problems, it’s about positioning a home as a cut above the rest. When buyers are looking at homes where potential issues have already been fixed, it shows that the seller is transparent and cares about quality.  

If a home seller is strategic about renovations and fixes, they may be able to return 2 to 3 times their investment. The key word here is strategic. Not every upgrade or renovation will boost a bottom line. Before spending any major money, consult with a real estate agent about which improvements will have the greatest impact. This can be market dependent as well. As always, be sure to understand financial limits and capabilities. Overextending oneself financially may not lead to a better outcome. 

Start with Curb Appeal 

Curb appeal is important because it’s the first impression a buyer will have of a home. A good place to start is the roof. Keeping a roof well-maintained is important because it can prevent some serious water damage. It also shows potential buyers that the home has been properly taken care of by the previous owner. Asphalt roofs are said to last between 15 – 30 years. Others can last up to 100. It’s important to know roof type and if the roof will need to be replaced soon. 

A new coat of paint can also make a home stand out. Choose neutral colors that can appeal to everyone. Try to inspect windows and doors for proper operation and caulking. Some small details like peeling caulk around windows can signal neglect to buyers. Power washing siding and driveways is another way to improve a home’s outward appearance at a relatively low cost. 

Inspecting All Rooms 

When first inspecting any room, the main areas to look are the walls, floor, and ceiling. Nail holes, scuff marks, and water stains can all be found with a keen buyer’s eye. Don’t forget to look at the electrical outlets and light switches in a room as well. These can easily be replaced at a low cost. 

Kitchen and Bathrooms 

These rooms can have a major impact on a sale. Kitchens and bathrooms can up a sale price by the thousands if recently renovated or well-maintained. In the kitchen, test all appliances. Look for any leaks, and make sure countertops and cabinets are in good condition.

In bathrooms, look for proper ventilation. Be sure there are fans, or a vent for airflow. Check the water pressure, and any signs of water damage. This is especially true around tubs, showers, and toilets. Look at grout that may need refreshing or caulk that needs replacing. These are all relatively inexpensive but can go a long way.

Big-Ticket Appliances 

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are some of a home’s biggest expenses. There is a common, “$5,000 rule” which can provide a helpful guide for making decisions. To figure out the rule, simply multiply the cost of repairs by a system’s age in years. If the result exceeds $5,000 then replacement is typically the better financial choice.  

For example, if repairs cost $500 and a system is 5 years old (500 × 5 = $2,500). A repair might make sense in that case. However, if repairs cost $1,000 and a system is 10 years old (1,000 × 10 = $10,000), replacement might be the better choice. 

Water Heater and Plumbing 

The first two things to check on a water heater would be its age and efficiency rating. Most hot water heaters last about 8-12 years, but this depends on a lot of factors. Replacing an aging hot water heater can be a strong selling point. On top of looking at the water heater, inspect all visible plumbing for leaks, proper drainage and adequate water pressure.  

Radon Mitigation 

Radon is an odorless and colorless gas. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. That’s why it can be a serious concern for buyers. A quick google search shows that the states with the highest radon levels are Alaska, South Dakota, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Washington, Kentucky, Montana, Idaho, Colorado, and Iowa. In some of these states, radon testing and mitigation may be required.  

Professional radon testing is relatively inexpensive but can go a long way. The EPA states that if radon levels exceed 4 pCi/L, then a radon mitigation system is needed. Having this work done before listing can show that a seller has a commitment to buyer safety.  

Electrical Systems 

A good way to get ahead on an electrical system is to have an electrician evaluate the electric panel before listing. Old breaker boxes, or insufficient amperage may need some updates. This may be one of the more expensive fixes but can be necessary to meet safety codes.  

Check to see that CFGI outlets are in the appropriate locations like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. These outlets have their own breakers, so they’re recommended around locations in the home that are close to water. On top of that, be sure to test all circuits to make sure that they’re properly labeled and functioning correctly.  

Structural Elements 

A foundation is probably the most expensive fix if there’s any damage. It can also, in certain circumstances, make a home almost unsellable. Take note of any cracks in the support beams, actual foundation, and floor joists. There may be some cosmetic cracks in cement foundations, but because cement settles this is typically normal. Keep an eye out for any rather large cracks and ones that expand. 

Investing in the Future 

Pre-listing inspections can make a seller go from passive to proactive just like that. Identifying and addressing potential issues before they arise and before a home hits the market, lets a buyer know a seller is serious about selling the home.  

The time and money a seller will save in a pre-listing inspection is almost incalculable. In today’s market, buyers have options. Be sure that your home stands out for the right reasons. Every home and market are different. Try to work closely with a real estate agent to develop a strategy for a pre-listing inspection. The goal isn’t to have a perfect home. The goal is to present a home that buyers can see themselves living in while making a good investment.