Seller Pre-Inspections Preserve YOUR Equity!
The home inspection period can be a stressful time for both sellers and buyers. And rightly so, 42% of transaction fall through due to inspection issues. Why not help bulletproof the sale of your home and complete a seller pre-inspection BEFORE you list the property?
In Arizona, the typical home inspection period for the buyer is 10 days! During those ten days, you are at the mercy of the buyer and their inspector waiting to see if there is something wrong with your house that you don't know about. Then you have to worry if this problem will affect the profit? Or will the problem or problems cancel the sale altogether? Wouldn't you rather go into offer negotiations knowing the condition of your property and be in more control of the transaction from the start? The information you get by completing a pre-listing inspection will help you get your home ready for the market as well as put you in a stronger position when it comes to negotiating with a buyer.
Here are some FAQ about seller pre-inspections:
What is a Seller's Pre-Inspection?
Instead of waiting until going under contract with a buyer, the seller completes a professional home inspection prior to listing the house on the market for sale. This inspection is an objective, visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home from the roof to the foundation to find items that are not performing correctly or items that are unsafe. The home inspection can point out items that could cost you thousands in repairs, and of course, there will be the normal wear and tear items that are usually an easy fix.
Typically in Arizona, a buyer has a 10 day home inspection period that begins at contract acceptance. If the buyer finds anything wrong with the property during the home inspection period they can elect to cancel the contract within the allotted time set forth in the purchase contract. A seller pre-inspection puts the seller in a stronger position by knowing the condition of the property prior to pricing and listing the home on the MLS. Providing the home inspection to the buyer provides transparency and peace of mind to the buyer.
What does a Home Inspection Include?
A standard Home Inspection includes an inspection of the condition of the heating system, central air conditioning system, interior plumbing, electrical systems, roof, attic, visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement and structural components.
What Will Not Be Included in the Home Inspection?
The inspection is limited to readily accessible and visible areas. An inspector will not damage walls, flooring, move furniture, appliances, stored items and they cannot walk on inaccessible or steep roofs or excavate soil. Latent and concealed defects and deficiencies are excluded from the inspections. Cosmetic flaws and defects are also not part of most inspections.
Will the Home Inspector Fix Any Problems Found During the Inspection?
No. The code of ethics of The American Society of Home Inspectors prohibits its members from doing repair work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. The purpose of the home inspection is to provide an unbiased, objective 3rd party report on the condition of the home.
Will an Inspection of the Pool be Included With a Standard Home Inspection?
Items such as detached buildings, docks, hot tubs, private wells, pools, septic systems, radon, mold, termite, and more can be arranged to be inspected for an additional fee.
Do I Get a Written Report on the Condition of the Home?
Yes, a written report is provided summarizing any issues found with the home. Most Home Inspectors also provide pictures of any issues that arise for easy reference.
What is the Difference Between a Home Inspection and an Appraisal?
A Home Inspection evaluates the condition of the structure and systems of a home. An appraisal determines the fair market value of a property based on its size, location and recent sales of like houses in the area. Some appraisals, such as FHA and VA, however, have requirements for the condition of the home. For example, they look for broken windows, broken stairs and if there is a spot for a built-in appliance, then the appliance must be present on the spot. They also check to make sure the electrical system is safely working and that the heating and cooling systems are operational. Generally summed up, the property can't be in bad repair, and must be livable.
If you'd like more information about completing a pre-inspection or if you have other questions about selling a house, please don't hesitate to contact me at 623-252-9350 or cinda@wvhometeam.com.
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