According to research, nearly one-third of all real estate contracts failed because they did not pass the home inspection. If you are buying or selling a house, you need to be up to date on what counts for a real estate inspection.
A home inspection can go one of two ways, a real breeze, or an absolute nightmare. It can turn a dream house into a no-go zone, crushing your moving dreams in one instant.
There is nothing worse than almost having your dream home, then having it pulled back beneath you because it needs some work done.
So how can we avoid these real estate inspection nightmares, so we can sign the contract and get on with the sale? Keep on reading to learn more about how does a home inspection work, and how to avoid the associated nightmares and pass the home inspection with flying colors.
1. Mold and Mildew
There is nothing that turns off a buyer more than seeing mold or mildew stains in the house they are wanting to buy. It’s a serious letdown, but it happens. This situation can get even worse if even looks like toxic black mold, a common fear of housebuyers.
Clean and rid of as much mold and mildew stains as you can, this will prevent the buyer from requesting you to pay for a professional mold remediation company, costing you thousands of dollars.
2. Electrical System
Electrical systems can be a real nightmare, especially in older houses. The electrical code can change over time, and if your house is not up to date with those changes, you are in for a huge electrical project.
The breaker and electrical panel should be in an area that is easy to access in case of an emergency. In addition, the bathrooms and kitchen must have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFI). This will ensure the outlets are turned off in case of an overload or short circuit.
3. Plumbing Issues
If you are preparing to sell your house, you must make sure to fix all plumbing leaks in ample time before the home inspection. Home inspectors are trained to look for recent water damage or leaks and will easily find these problems if you are not on top of them.
4. A Cluttered House
While you may not think that a clean house has anything to do with a home inspection, it does give an overall “feel” of the way you care for your house.
A cluttered house will raise some red flags for the house inspector, leading them to believe that if you neglect to clean it, you neglect to stay on top of necessary renovations and damages.
5. Ignored Roof and Chimney
Depending on your state, you may be required to do a separate roof inspection. Either way, you should prepare your roof for a thorough inspection.
The first part the home inspector will look for on your roof is worn out and rotted shingles or other materials. If they suspect any neglect on the roof, you are in for a big financial setback for roof repairs.
The same rules apply to the chimney inspection. Run your chimney through a test to see that it works properly and the mortar and bricks are in good shape.
6. Neglect of the Little Things
There are multiple little fixes you can do on your own to avoid any negative reviews from the home inspector. These fixes are generally pretty cheap and will go a long way in a home inspection.
Label Your Fuse Box
This shows that you are well organized and care about the order of your house. The home inspector will also appreciate not having to figure it out on their own.
Ensure Easy Access
Is there easy access to the doors, or are there shrubbery in the way? Mow your lawn, clear the bushes, secure your pets and make sure nothing is in the way for anyone.
Replace the Light Bulbs
A burned out bulb can appear like an electrical problem to a house inspector. Even if your electrical system is fine, this will cause the inspector to look much deeper into the electrical system.
7. Rid of Bugs and Pests
If you have a pest problem, this could mean a major red flag for any real estate inspection. The odd bug is normal, but if there are any possible signs of termites, ants, or wasps nests, you will be required to call an exterminator.
8. Heating and Cooling System
Make sure your furnace is working adequately before the home inspector comes. You can easily change the filters yourself, which will look like you take good care of the system.
9. Smoke and Other Detectors
Detectors are another part of the home inspection that seems small but could affect the outcome. Check every single smoke and carbon monoxide detector in the house, make sure the batteries are fresh and they are working properly.
10. Don’t Take It Seriously
If things do not go well, try not to take anything seriously. Like we mentioned above, house inspections are tough and are the leading cause for failed contracts. This is a review on the house, not on yourself.
Take the report to your realtor and they will help you move forward from there.
To be ultimately prepared, check out this awesome checklist that will help you to be fully prepared for even the toughest of home inspectors.
Learn More About How to Pass a Real Estate Inspection
Now that you know how to avoid a real estate inspection, there are many other things you should know as you prepare to sell your house.
If you would like to schedule an inspection, or have any other questions, feel free to contact us at any time.