September 10th 2022

The home inspection can be a particularly stressful part of the homebuying process for buyers, but the equally anxious seller might be waiting with bated breath for the results as well. The buyer is typically responsible for scheduling and paying for the home inspection, but if the house is revealed to have major issues, the seller can be on the hook for repairs—or could lose the deal entirely.

When selling a home, one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the process is waiting to see the outcome of the home inspection.  Home inspection issues like termite or mold damage can mean the seller will have to shell out money, credits, or concessions to make things right with the buyer. If the buyer is truly turned off by the home inspection results (and has a home inspection contingency), they can walk away from the deal.

Steps to ace a home inspection

Tidy up the home and leave

Before the inspector arrives, clean up any clutter.

Although your inspector will be looking at more than just the cosmetic state of your home, it is never a bad idea to tidy up and clean your home ahead of time. This will show the inspector that, as a homeowner, you kept up with everyday maintenance.

Once you’re done cleaning, it’s time to depart so the inspector can inspect your home.

Let the professional do their job and stay out of the way, but be approachable should they need something.

Make the home accessible

Make sure the inspector has easy access to every part of your home. If your attic access is in a closet or garage, clear any items that would impede access.

The inspector can give you a rundown of all the access points they’ll need, but generally, they’ll need to get to the garage, roof, attic and/or basement, electrical service panel, and under the sinks.