Selling a property might seem easy, but preparing it for inspection before putting it on the market is challenging. An inspection report is a huge factor buyers consider before bidding on a property. It is also why sellers go through the tedious task of hiring professional home inspectors to generate detailed reports.
Providing an inspection report is an indication of honesty. It associates good intentions in the selling of a property to the new owner. Having these documents will let potential buyers feel at ease, knowing that the property is in good standing. Going the extra mile for your clients is never a bad thing.
Detailed reports are also a negotiating strategy. Some buyers bring home inspectors to check properties. Although that is fine, there are instances when sellers get blindsided by issues that are present in the property. However, hiring a professional home inspector to generate a detailed report should help you identify the issues that need to be addressed before listing the property for bidding.
Clean Out Open Areas in the Property
Assuming that you’ve moved out of the property, it is vital to ensure the cleanliness within the space. The kitchen, attic, and even storage areas should be sparkling clean before somebody checks them out. Remember to clean out the furnace filter, wipe down the stove and oven, remove all items from the attic, organize the closets, and clear out the perimeter of your home’s exterior.
Check Out the Functionality of the Property
Another thing to double-check is the status of the property’s fixtures. Open and close the windows to see if they are well-oiled or need a bit of help. Ensure the buyer’s safety by testing out the locks and seals. If there are missing keys, have them replaced or replace the whole system. Try to see if the ceiling and bathroom fans are all working since ventilation is essential in a closed space.
Ensure Safety in the Property
Although you’re moving out of the space, it’s great to look after whoever will own the place next. Simple things like changing the batteries in smoke detectors, testing their effectiveness, replenishing the fire extinguishers, checking cap gas lines, and exterminating any pests should make them feel more at ease and confident in securing the deal. All these steps are not recommended but applauded.
Make Necessary Repairs
The detailed inspection report should find out all of the issues in the property that needs repairing. Before the scheduled inspection of the potential buyers, try to finish up repairs to ensure they don’t see these issues as a markdown to the property’s value. Replace light bulbs, remove drain clogs, change cracked windows, and replace any windows as soon as possible.
Improve the Exterior of the Property
The first thing that buyers see is the exterior. However, if it looks suspicious at first glance, they’ll likely skip to the next property right away. Curb appeal is absolutely essential to making a sale, as problems with the exterior immediately lead to similar assumptions about the interior.
Conclusion
The most important thing to do before an inspection is to make sure the property is ready. Plan to leave the space at an earlier time, clear out all the mess, and leave all the important paperwork that the inspector can use.
AEI Inspections combines 30 years of experience to bring superb structural home inspection services to our clients. Our company focuses on detailed and thorough inspections in Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and surrounding areas in North Eastern Oklahoma. Book an appointment today and prepare your property for tomorrow.