Coffee Talk With Karen - How To Prepare For A Home Inspection

You have a conditional offer and one of the conditions include an inspection. What does that mean for a seller? How does a seller prepare for the home inspection?

Karen Macdonald here from the Hamre Real Estate Team at RE/MAX Affiliates in Ottawa.

It’s coffee talk!!

Sellers you are not done yet - the home inspection is as important as a showing. Make sure your home is in ‘show shape’ - first impressions are just as important to a home inspector.

When a home inspector sees a home that is well cared for and maintained they are less concerned about issues arising. Disclose any issues upfront - if you don’t the home inspector will most likely find clues that take them to the problem so you can’t hide.

Sellers, avoid being home for the inspection. The buyer needs to feel comfortable and you could say the wrong thing and damage the transaction. The buyers realtor along with the inspector will be there and will be able to deal with any questions that arise.

Some tips to prepare for the inspection:

Again the number 1 thing,  make sure your home is clean.
Replace furnace filters and leave out maintenance records, make sure furnace and hot water tank are accessible.
While you are at it make sure the electrical panel, water shut offs and attic hatch are accessible.
Replace burnt out light bulbs,
Clean bathtubs and showers, make sure they are mildew and mold free. Put all your personal hygiene products away - shampoos, soaps etc.
Do not use any air fresheners- open windows. People automatically think you are hiding something if there is a strong scent. If it’s winter just crack the bathroom window open a bit.
Remove any leaves or debris in exterior window wells. Also eavestrough and downspouts should be extended and away from the foundation.
Leave all records available for recent home improvements and maintenance upkeep - the inspector may want to look it over. 

The home inspection is not a pass or fail it is simply a tolerance level for the buyer and each buyer is different. These tips will help make sure that everything goes as smooth as possible.

If you have any questions about your up and coming inspection reach out

Karen MacDonald from the Hamre Real Estate Team in Ottawa