When Should You Get a Pre-Listing Home Inspection?
In most cases, potential buyers of a home will request a home inspection, but it’s not uncommon for a buyer to do the same! You may not need a pre-listing home inspection, however, depending on the situation, it may be the right thing to do.
Pre-listing home inspections can make the process of selling your home much simpler, both for you and the buyer.
In this guide, you’ll learn more about when to get a pre-listing home inspection, including the pros and cons.
The Benefits of Pre-Listing Inspections: Setting the Stage for a Smooth Sale
Before you choose when to get a pre-listing home inspection, it’s best to decide if one is right for your situation.
While a pre-listing inspection isn’t always necessary, here are some reasons to consider one. Let’s review some of the advantages of these inspections for home sellers.
A Pre-Listing Home Inspection May Expedite the Selling Process
Many sellers have a deadline. They might need to move for a new job or have a new home they’re trying to purchase. So, a long, drawn-out selling process isn't ideal. With a pre-listing home inspection, buyers will have fewer reservations and be able to move through the sale faster.
Give the Buyers a Vote of Confidence and Trust in Your Property
Establishing trust between sellers and buyers is key. When you request a pre-listing home inspection, you're showing potential buyers that you don’t have anything to hide. They will feel more secure trusting you in the process.
Alleviates Stress Proactively Before the Buyer Conducts Their Home Inspection
While home buyers usually request home inspections, this can be quite stressful for the seller. If you have questions about the overall condition of your home, you could be in for quite the surprise.
If you set up a pre-listing inspection, you’ll know the issues with your home, and you can price it accordingly. This way, there won’t be any surprise negotiations if major issues are uncovered after you start the sale.
Helps You Catch Components in Your House That Are Damaged
As an ethical person, you want to know the state of your house before you sell it. You want to be able to tell potential buyers if there are major issues, such as plumbing and electrical, and repair them before selling.
It Can Help Negate the Chance of Re-Negotiation From the Buyer
As noted briefly above, selling a home can be a long process if you have to re-negative. If you want the process to go smoothly and get what you expected out of the home, save yourself stress with a pre-listing inspection.
Potential Cons of a Pre-Listing Home Inspection
While pre-listing inspections make sense for many sellers, it’s important to weigh both sides. Here’s the other of the spectrum to consider when it comes to a pre-listing home inspection.
- You have to pay for a pre-listing home inspection.
- You are legally required to disclose any information on damages you find during the pre-listing inspection.
- There will be two inspections on your home, which can cause extra chaos when trying to sell and move out.
- You may have to make costly repairs to parts of your home if you want to sell it at a fair price to you.
- You may be creating more work for yourself, especially if it’s a seller’s market!
For many home sellers, the pros far outweigh the cons. Still, making an educated decision for your life is vital.
Cost of a Pre-Listing Home Inspection
Now that you have a guideline on the pros and cons of a pre-listing home inspection, it’s time to take a look at what it may cost you.
Depending on your home, the average price of a home inspection will be around $250-$500. In some cases, the home inspector may suggest hiring a specialist for certain parts of your home, such as the sewer or electrical system.
When Should I Get a Pre-Listing Inspection?
You’ve weighed the pros and cons of getting a pre-listing home inspection, and you’ve decided to do it!
Now the question that may still be on your mind is: when?
The answer is as soon as you decide to get one! Getting a pre-listing inspection as soon as you decide on it will give you ample time to make any necessary repairs before you put your house on the market.
The point of a pre-listing inspection is to get it done before putting the home on the market. The inspection allows you to more accurately market and price the property, so when you’re ready to list, set up an appointment with DMC Home Inspections for home inspection needs.
Get a Pre-Listing Inspection With DMC Home Inspections
Thinking of selling your home and want a pre-listing inspection done? Call on DMC Home Inspections! Our 150 points of thorough inspection will help you find a fair price for your home while taking away some of the stress.
Schedule an inspection online or give us a call at 612-310-1692 today!