Pre-Inspections and Small Repairs That Make a Big Difference

Getting your home ready for the market doesn't have to be overwhelming. By addressing a few key maintenance items before listing, you can present your property in its best light and potentially avoid negotiation headaches during the option period. Our team has compiled this guide based on our experience with hundreds of home sales.

Quick Fixes That Make a Difference

Inspection reports frequently highlight these common issues that can be easily addressed during your preparation phase:

• Replace burned-out light bulbs - Ensure all fixtures are working properly. We recommend bulbs at 3000 Kelvin or lower for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

• Change AC filters - Fresh filters improve air quality and show buyers the home has been well-maintained.

• Refresh bathroom caulking - New caulk around tubs and showers makes bathrooms look cleaner and prevents moisture issues.

• Replace rusty or dirty air returns - These are inexpensive updates that significantly improve appearance.

• Clean and touch up the front door - First impressions matter!

• Adjust door strike plates - Ensure locks work smoothly for that quality feel.

• Schedule HVAC seasonal service - Have a licensed contractor inspect and service your system.

• Clean dryer vents - Clear both the lint trap and exterior venting for safety.

• Ensure water shutoff is accessible - Make sure it's not buried or difficult to reach.

• Label the electrical panel - This simple task appears on nearly every inspection report.

• Create an irrigation system map - Leave this near the controller for the new owners.

The Value of Pre-Inspections

Many sellers are now choosing to complete a pre-inspection before listing their home. This proactive approach can streamline the selling process in several ways.

Benefits of Pre-Inspections

• Confident buyers make better offers - In multiple offer situations, buyers can factor the home's condition into their initial offer rather than making adjustments later.

• Smoother option periods - Without a pre-inspection, buyers may use their entire option period assessing the property's condition, potentially leading to last-minute requests.

• Address issues on your timeline - You'll have ample opportunity to complete repairs or gather quotes for more complex issues.

• Create a comprehensive information packet - Providing transparency about any needed repairs builds trust with potential buyers.

Potential Downsides

• Unexpected discoveries - Even if you've lived in your home for years, you might be surprised by what appears on an inspection report. Older homes often have longer reports as building codes have changed over time.

• Buyers may still request their own inspection - While a pre-inspection typically reduces the number of repair requests, buyers will likely still conduct their own assessment.

Choosing an Inspector

While you're welcome to use any qualified inspector for your pre-inspection, most of our clients have had excellent experiences with:

• Site Hawk Inspections - Jared Beard

• Your Super Inspector

These inspectors offer online scheduling and can access your property via lockbox, which we're happy to provide.

Next Steps

If you're considering a pre-inspection, we recommend completing it before filling out your Seller's Disclosure. Don't worry - you can always update the disclosure if new information comes to light.

Have questions about preparing your home for sale? Our team is here to help every step of the way! Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.

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We are delighted to be your guides to Austin and Austin real estate!

Cheers,

Jen & the team

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