Sellers Should Inspect their Homes like Professionals Before Putting it up for Sale

Generally the buyer has a right to get an inspection on a property before purchasing it. The sales contract may specify details of the condition of the various aspects of the property. If the results of a home inspection report are unfavorable, the necessary repairs may need to be taken care of by the seller. Or the buyer may agree to do the same but offer a lower price. The solution may vary and depend on the contract.
The seller should make the necessary repairs ahead of time so problems which may delay a transaction can be avoided. The seller can either get a home inspection done or choose to closely scrutinize his own property. But make sure to be brutal and objective while examining your property.
A home inspector will examine the foundation and structure, electrical, plumbing, cooling and heating systems, roofs, chimneys etc. So go through each of these and check to see what repairs are required. Examine your home for mildew and mold, look at damp walls or ceilings and get them fixed. The electrical panel and circuit breaker configuration will be examined to check if it is sufficient for the home’s requirements. Make sure all your lights and air conditioning/ heating system are working properly and filters are in decent shape.
Your oven, disposal, dishwasher, burners should all work properly. All taps, faucets and showers should be in good condition. Open all simultaneously to check the pressure in each. Your septic system should work properly and there should be no drainage problems. Fireplace and chimney should be clean and functioning well.
Your roof is going to be carefully examined so make sure that it does not leak, there are no damaged shingles, etc. Clean gutters; ensure that downspouts have diverters under them, drainage downspouts should point away from the house; trim trees or branches which may touch the roof.
Pay attention to your garage and attic. Clean them out as the inspector is going to visit these places and poke around. See if the lights and garage door are working. Check for damage by water, rodents, insects, etc. In some states, specific checks regarding radon gas, termite infestation etc. need to be conducted and the results revealed to the buyer.
Ask a friend to come home and point out flaws that you may not be able to objectively see. If you detect any problems get them fixed unless you are prepared to settle for a lower purchase price. If your home is in very poor condition, then you may consider selling your home “as is” but settle for a comparatively low price.
Before the home inspection, carefully check your home and keep it clean. The home inspector is going to look for problems and may even find some. You probably missed a few things or he just picked on minor details. The point is to not get flustered; prepare yourself ahead by making the necessary repairs. All other minor details can be dealt with later and may not even affect the sale.