Why should you get an inspection prior to listing your property?
Home inspections are included in real estate contracts as a contingency towards the final few steps of selling a home, and are typically requested by the homebuyer. However, as a home seller, it’s beneficial to get a home inspection even before listing your home to ensure the process runs smoothly.
To diagnose problems with your home
Before listing your home, it’s good to be mindful of factors homebuyers may find to be negative about your home. For example, are the shudders on your home old? Are the hinges on doors rusted and squeaky?
A home inspector can help you identify areas in need of repair and improvement, so you can make the necessary adjustments before potential homebuyers get the chance to view your property.
What do inspectors search for?
When inspecting your property, a licensed professional examines your house for a multitude of items. These include, but are not limited to:
- Exterior components, such as cracks or broken seals on surfaces, structural integrity, garage door function, etc.
- The roof is checked for things such as broken shingles or nearby tree branches that could pose risk of damage to your home or nearby power lines during a storm.
- The HVAC system will be checked to make sure it’s running properly, and vents are also checked to make sure they are clean and clear of debris.
- Interior components of your home will be checked for safety, which may include issues such as water damages and pests.
Will the seller still order an inspection if one was done prior?
An inspection contingency is built into most real estate purchase contracts to protect the interests of the buyer and seller.
In most cases, a buyer may want to get their own inspection performed to make certain the home is fit for purchase.
Getting an inspection ahead of time can help you troubleshoot as a home seller and boost your preparation to sell your property.
About the Author
Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971
With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.
Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS. His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.
When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.
