All homes talk. Sometimes it just takes a trained ear to hear what they’re saying. Some real estate professionals maintain that having a home inspection prior to listing offers several benefits to the seller. Identifying possible property related “red flags” early in the transaction could potentially save the transaction from menacing roadblocks that threaten to send everyone back to the negotiating table.
While a pre-inspection will not head off every potential issue, most will agree that early detection is beneficial to all parties involved.
• Identify
defects and make repairs ahead of time. By identifying possible defects early
on, the seller is in a position to handle repairs prior to listing, making the
listing more attractive and the property more saleable. This may mean more
money to the seller and a faster sale. Making repairs ahead of time will limit
objections over defects during the negotiations. If the seller elects not to
repair certain defects that turn up in the inspection, they can disclose the
defects to potential buyers in the disclosure documents. State disclosure laws
vary, and sellers should consult with their attorneys on state disclosure laws.
• Aid as a
pricing tool. Having a completed inspection report from a certified inspector
will help you (the seller) arrive at a realistic list price. If you find out,
for example, that your HVAC system shows significant wear and tear and will
need to be replaced right before summer,
you should take that into consideration when pricing your home for sale.
• Provide a
feeling of confidence to potential buyers. With a clean inspection in hand
after viewing a property, potential buyers may feel more comfortable in moving
ahead with an offer. When a buyer can see there are no major defects in the
property to be addressed, it is easier for them to determine how much they can
comfortably spend on the house. If there is a problem that needs to be addressed,
they buyers can write an offer that will reflect the cost of the needed
repairs, or they can ask the sellers to remedy the defect.
But keep in Mind the
Buyer has the right and should do their own inspection as it is their duty to
make sure they find everything out about the home that is important to them
during their inspection period.
Additionally, here are 3 Ways to use a Pre-Listing
Inspection to Benefit Sellers:
• Create a
unique selling advantage; because most home owners will not have one done, so
your home will look more appealing because you took the extra step!
• Early
resolution of any differences of opinions about price vs condition
• You (the
seller) have time to fix any conditions identified (if you choose to) or simply
reflect it in the purchase price (attach repair estimates or paid invoices to
the inspection report).
I hope this helps you sell your home quicker- and please
contact me if you want to find out more!
