How to Prepare for Your Home Inspection: Tips for Buyers and Sellers

When it comes to buying or selling a home, the home inspection is a big moment. For buyers, it’s a chance to make sure there are no costly surprises hiding behind the walls. For sellers, it’s an opportunity to show the home is in great shape—and help the deal move smoothly toward closing.

The inspection process doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation, both buyers and sellers can make the day a lot easier (and a lot more successful).

Here’s what you need to know.

Tips for Sellers: Set the Stage for a Smooth Inspection

1. Clean and Declutter Key Areas
   While a spotless house isn’t required, a reasonably tidy home helps the inspector access important areas like the basement, attic, electrical panels, and HVAC units. If we can’t get to something, it might get flagged in the report.
2. Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs
   It’s a small thing, but burned-out bulbs can suggest an electrical issue when it might just be a bulb. Save yourself a follow-up inspection by checking all lights ahead of time.
3. Check All Utilities Are On
   Make sure water, gas, and electric services are active. Inspectors need to test outlets, appliances, heating, cooling, and plumbing.
4. Provide Easy Access
   Unlock gates, attic hatches, crawl spaces, and garage doors. Clear anything blocking access to the foundation, water heater, and breaker panel.
5. Make Minor Repairs
   Fix leaky faucets, loose handrails, doors that don’t close properly, or other easy-to-address maintenance issues. It shows the home is well cared for.
6. Prepare Documentation
   Leave out records of repairs, maintenance, or recent upgrades (like a new roof or HVAC system). It builds confidence with buyers and the inspector.

Specialized Services: Preparing for Mold and Water Testing

If additional services are scheduled like mold testing or water quality testing, a little extra prep goes a long way.

For Mold Testing:

• Keep windows and doors closed (except for normal entry/exit) at least two hours before the test to get accurate indoor air samples.
• Clear access to any suspected problem areas, like basements, attics, or areas with visible moisture.

For Radon Testing:

• The test takes at least 48 hours.  Keep windows and doors closed (except for normal entry/exit) until equipment has been retrieved.

For Water Testing:

• Make sure faucets are clean and free from debris.
• Inform the inspector if the home has a water softener, filtration system, or well, so they can sample accordingly.
• If the property is vacant, ensure the plumbing has been flushed recently to avoid stagnant water samples.

Tips for Buyers: Get the Most Out of Your Inspection

1. Attend the Inspection
   Whenever possible, plan to be there. It’s a valuable chance to walk through the home with the inspector, ask questions, and better understand any findings.
2. Bring a Notepad
   Take notes on maintenance tips, future repair suggestions, or explanations about the home’s systems. Even if you’ll get a report, it’s helpful to have quick reminders.
3. Prepare a List of Questions
   If you’ve already noticed things during your showings (like cracks in walls, slow drains, or funky smells), make a list and share it with your inspector at the start.
4. Keep Expectations Realistic
   Every home—even new ones—has minor issues. The inspection’s goal is to flag major concerns, not create a perfect punch list.

Final Thoughts: Preparation Pays Off

When buyers and sellers each take a few simple steps before the inspection, it helps the process go faster, smoother, and with fewer surprises. That leads to a better experience for everyone—and keeps deals on track.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just getting ready for your next move, we’re here to help you every step of the way—Partnering for Peace of Mind.

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