Worried about the home inspection? Here’s how to prepare.

Selling a home in Burbank can be an exciting yet daunting experience. As a Burbank Real Estate Agent, one of the most important steps in the process is preparing for a home inspection. Home inspections are standard when selling a home, and being prepared can make all the difference between a smooth transaction and unexpected delays.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essential steps to take before the inspector arrives, so you can ensure a successful home inspection and avoid any surprises. Let’s dive in!

1. Address Minor Repairs Ahead of Time

Before scheduling your home inspection, it’s wise to take care of any small repairs around the house. These minor issues—like fixing leaky faucets, patching holes in walls, or replacing broken light fixtures—may seem insignificant, but they can raise red flags during an inspection.

An inspector will note these minor issues, and the buyer might use them to negotiate a lower price. By fixing them in advance, you’ll show the buyer that you’ve taken good care of the home, potentially making your property more attractive.

2. Ensure Easy Access to Key Areas

Home inspectors will need to access various parts of your home, including the attic, basement, crawl spaces, and garage. Make sure these areas are cleared of any clutter to give the inspector easy access.

If your attic or crawl spaces are blocked by boxes or other items, it could delay the inspection or result in areas being overlooked. The easier it is for the inspector to do their job, the more thorough and efficient the inspection will be.

3. Check the Functionality of Major Systems

Inspectors will thoroughly examine key systems in the home, including the plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling systems. Before the inspection, double-check these systems to ensure they’re working properly.

• Plumbing: Fix any leaks or drips in faucets and pipes.
• Electrical: Make sure all outlets, switches, and light fixtures are functioning.
• HVAC: Clean or replace filters in your heating and cooling systems to ensure they are working properly.

A home that has well-maintained systems will pass the inspection with fewer issues, making the process smoother and faster.

4. Clean and Declutter the Home

It’s important to present your home in the best possible light for the inspection. A clean and decluttered home is easier for the inspector to assess, and it shows that you’ve maintained the property well.

• Deep clean the house, including floors, windows, and surfaces.
• Declutter spaces, especially areas the inspector will need to access, such as closets, basements, and garages.
• Clear outdoor areas, including the yard, porch, and shed, to give the inspector easy access to these spaces.

By doing this, you’ll not only make the inspection easier but also create a more inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.

5. Prepare for the Inspector’s Arrival

Home inspections typically last between 2-4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the home. The inspector will check everything from the foundation to the roof, looking for issues that could affect the property’s value or the safety of its occupants.

While the inspector is busy assessing your home, it’s a good idea to vacate the property. This allows the inspector to do their job without distractions and ensures the process goes smoothly.

Also, make sure to provide the inspector with any relevant documents, such as maintenance records, warranties for appliances, or recent repair receipts. This can help the inspector understand the condition of the property better and may even save time during the inspection.

6. Understand What Happens After the Inspection

Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will provide a detailed report outlining any issues found in the home. As a seller, it's essential to stay calm and not be alarmed by the report. Remember, no home is perfect. It's common for inspectors to find small issues, but major problems are less frequent.

Once the report is ready, you and your Burbank Real Estate Agent, like myself, will go over it with the buyer’s agent. If the inspection report reveals any issues, the buyer may request repairs or a price reduction. This is where your negotiation skills come in—having a strong strategy can help you navigate these requests and keep the deal on track.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared and Confident

Preparing for a home inspection can feel like a lot of work, but it’s an essential part of selling your home in Burbank. By addressing minor repairs, ensuring easy access to inspection areas, and making sure major systems are in working order, you’ll give yourself the best chance of passing the inspection with minimal issues.

As a Realtor in Burbank, I’m here to help guide you through the entire process. From preparing for the inspection to negotiating the best deal after the report comes in, I’m committed to ensuring you get the best outcome when selling your home.

If you’re ready to sell your home in Burbank, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’ll make the home selling process as smooth and profitable as possible.