Home Inspections

Another thing you can expect is requests for home inspections before closing. It’s very rare a buyer will close without first going through a home inspection. Proper inspections can make the closing process smoother, but sometimes a buyer will change their mind afterward.

In the terms of a contract, the buyer most likely will secure an option period.  This allows ample time to have the home inspected.  Inspections can turn up multiple findings whether it is an older or new home.

How to Handle Home Inspections:

• Inspector Contact Info.  Be sure to get the contact information for the home inspector so you can leave your contact information with them.  During the inspection, they may have a question in regards to turning something on for testing. Pool equipment often falls into this category and if the inspector cannot test, they will leave a comment on the report that this particular item/function was not observed/tested.  This can leave buyers in a grey area and they may want to have it inspected later. 
• Leave The House.  This is a time for the inspector to have full access to the home to carry out the home inspection.  Make sure you leave all areas accessible and any special notes for the inspector should they be required.  It never hurts to call and explain a special circumstance but do be sure to communicate if needed!
• Buyers.  This is also a time for the buyers to be in your home and feel relaxed to look around.  The inspector will sit down with them at the end of the inspection and go over the report.  This is vital as it will allow the buyers to see first hand what the inspector wishes to point out and bring to their attention.  If a buyer is unable to make an inspection, then the report will be reviewed after the fact.  Tip: Give the buyers an opportunity to come back out and look at the home again after the inspection.  This is a time you can get out in front of any potential requests a buyer may ask.
• Inspection Report.  The report is in.  The buyers have reviewed and have come back and asked for repairs to be made or concessions to be given.  This may place you back to the previous step of negotiations.  Remember, you are never obligated to fix, replace, or provide a concession.  This is strictly up to you.  Keep in mind however, a buyer could walk away from the deal.  Any home will have some issue or another so try not to get emotional.  Review and respond accordingly.  Try to work with the buyer and do what is reasonable.  

10 MOST EXPENSIVE HOME REPAIRS 

(AND HOW TO AVOID THEM)

Owning a home is an awesome investment, but it comes with some risk. Do some basic maintenance to avoid major costs!    

If you find you have issues in any of these areas, contact a professional before you begin the sale of your home and have it addressed.  If it is discovered only during an inspection, then you have a couple of options.  

1.  Have it repaired.  Perhaps the buyer is willing to allow you to do the repairs yourself.  Usually small items are easily done by the seller.  But what if it is a larger item as mentioned above.  Buyers will usually ask for these repairs to be conducted by a licensed professional with documented proof the work was carried out and any warranty that may come along with the service.  
2. Offer A Concession.  Gather a few bids to repair the deficiency and offer to discount the sale of the house by that amount.  This is a popular option for both buyers and sellers.  Buyers receive a discount and pay less, while sellers avoid having to schedule the work and pay out of pocket.  Sometimes sellers can over other items such as appliances or furniture in lieu of money.  Again, it is about keeping open dialogue with the buyer and trying to do what is best for all parties to close the transaction.  

Get The Deal Done

Home inspections can be stressful.  Whether your home is newly built or older, inspections will most likely turn something up.  It is up to the buyer whether they want to ask the seller to fix an issue or discount the sale of home.  You are not obligated to do either but you want to consider what is best for you in order to sell your home.