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April 29, 2024Pre-Listing Inspections in Ohio: Ensure a Smooth Sale Process
Selling a home can be daunting, especially when unexpected issues arise during negotiations. The last thing you want is a buyer with a laundry list of expected pre-sale repairs!
However, with pre-listing inspections, homeowners in Ohio have a powerful tool at their disposal to streamline the selling process.
A comprehensive inspection before listing enables sellers to address any problems and present their property in the best possible light to potential buyers.
By taking care of problems early, you’ll improve the overall appearance of your home and show buyers it’s been well looked after. When your home is more attractive, it builds trust, and you could get a higher price for your property.
Let’s look at the various pre-listing inspection options provided by Home & Commercial Inspections and how they can benefit Ohio homeowners.
Why Get a Pre-Listing Inspection?
As they say, forewarned is forearmed.
An inspection empowers sellers to take charge of the selling process. Knowing the issues well in advance helps avoid surprises during negotiations with buyers, who may decide to do their own inspections.
Addressing issues early can create a positive impression on potential buyers and maximize your property’s value.
Areas of Focus in a Pre-Listing Inspection
Here’s a breakdown of the areas covered in a Home & Commercial Inspections pre-listing inspection performed in Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Ohio.
1. Roof
Address roofing issues to improve curb appeal. An inspection will address common problems such as:
- moss growth
- missing flashings
- loose fasteners
- worn-out and storm-damaged shingles
2. Exteriors
Fixing exterior repairs will enhance the overall appearance of your property. Identify common issues such as:
- rotted doors
- poor grading causing drainage problems
- settling concrete pads affecting stability
- rotted siding
- openings that can let in water
3. Chimney
Give buyers peace of mind and make sure your home is not a fire hazard.
Chimneys are inspected for structural integrity and safety. An inspection will ensure the structure is intact with no visible signs of damage and verify there are no obstructions or combustible materials that can affect the safety and efficiency of the fireplace.
4. Foundation
Buyers want to trust the structural integrity of foundations in their potential new home. Reassure them with an inspection.
Common problems include:
- moisture leaks
- outside grading issues that cause water to run into the foundations
- blocked gutters causing water buildup
- standing water near foundation walls
5. Doors and Windows
Doors, windows, and their components wear out over time and show damage—and faulty doors and windows are not energy efficient!
Broken or rotted frames and seals, worn-out screens, and leaky gaskets affect how well windows and doors work. They make a property look unloved and reduce its value.
6. Electrical
Electricity is an invisible danger. Before listing your home, prioritize the safety of your property and address any important issues such as:
- missing ground fault interrupter (GFI) outlets
- electric panels that are too small
- broken pins and slots on outlets
- outlets that don’t work in certain areas
- ungrounded outlets
- distribution breakers in the main panel with double taps
- safety hazards in the switchboard
7. Plumbing
Avoid plumbing pitfalls and watch out for:
- improperly installed accordion traps
- leaking shower drains
- faulty waistline vent caps causing drainage problems
- leaking plumbing traps
- loose toilet tops
- clogged sinks and tubs
- leaking fixtures
Also, take care that your water heater is fully functional and hazard-free.
8. Heating
Guarantee comfort and safety and enhance property appeal by booking a furnace tune-up before you list your home. Make sure the supply and return air temperatures meet the manufacturer’s standards and check for any carbon monoxide leaks.
9. A/C Condensing Unit
A properly functioning air conditioning unit is a great selling point. An inspection will:
- check if the condensing unit temperatures meet manufacturer standards
- look for leaks from condensation points on the evaporator coil
- make sure there are no blockages on the exterior coil
Whether you plan to sell or not, it’s always best practice to regularly maintain and run your condensing unit during summer to ensure it’s working properly.
10. Interiors
Create an inviting space for buyers so they can visualize themselves living in your home.
Make sure all your appliances are working well and not damaged. Check and repair any interior doors that aren’t working properly, such as those off track or with loose hardware.
Simple fixes make a huge difference in how your home looks—and how much it sells for!
11. Radon
Ohio is well-known for its high radon levels. Testing for radon is a smart move to ensure a smooth real estate transaction. You can look at mitigation options and share your radon levels with buyers so they know if they need to reduce radon levels once they own the home.
12. Lead-Based Paint
Lead-based paint is common in houses built before 1978. If you’re selling an older home, buyers—especially those who are likely to remodel—will likely ask about lead paint. And if you’re planning to remodel before you sell, a lead paint inspection is crucial.
Failing to address lead-based paint problems could bring your home sale to an end, as potential buyers may simply walk away rather than pay the money to rectify it.
13. Mold
Don’t sell a health hazard! Get rid of mold before you list your home.
An inspection will:
- check the basement and crawl space for signs of water ingress, moisture, or humidity
- make sure the attic has proper ventilation
- check the house for plumbing leaks
14. Wood-Destroying Insects
These insects destroy wood and send buyers running:
- carpenter bees
- powder-post beetles
- carpenter ants
- termites
Replace any rotten or insect-infested wood and exterminate these invaders that will destroy your home’s integrity and ruin a sale.
15. Asbestos
Asbestos is life-threatening, and buyers may back out of a deal if they learn that asbestos is in the property. Build trust with buyers through transparent disclosure.
Home & Commercial Inspections Will Boost Your Sale
Pre-listing inspections offer numerous benefits for Ohio homeowners looking to sell their properties. By addressing potential issues before you list, you’ll enhance your property’s value, streamline the selling process, and provide peace of mind to potential buyers.
From roofing to asbestos, Home & Commercial Inspections guarantee a thorough pre-listing inspection, helping you get a smooth and successful sale.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Why should I invest in a pre-listing inspection?
A pre-listing inspection allows you to identify and address potential issues before listing your home, ensuring a smoother selling process and potentially maximizing your property’s value.
2. Are pre-listing inspections necessary for all homes?
While not mandatory, pre-listing inspections are highly recommended for all homeowners, especially those looking to sell their properties in Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Ohio. They help avoid surprises during negotiations and build confidence in potential buyers.
3. How much does a pre-listing inspection typically cost?
The cost of a pre-listing inspection can vary depending on the size and condition of the property, as well as the specific services included. However, the investment is often worthwhile considering the benefits it offers in terms of enhancing property value and expediting the selling process.
4. Will addressing issues found in a pre-listing inspection increase my home’s value?
Yes, addressing issues identified in a pre-listing inspection can potentially increase your home’s value by presenting it in the best possible condition to potential buyers. It also helps build trust and confidence in the property.
5. Can I conduct a pre-listing inspection myself, or should I hire a professional?
While homeowners can certainly perform basic inspections, hiring a Ohio licensed inspector is recommended for thorough and accurate assessments. Professional inspectors have the expertise and tools to identify hidden issues that may not be apparent to untrained individuals.
Call Home & Commercial Inspections today at 1-800-241-0133 and schedule your pre-listing inspection. You’ll maximize your property’s value and guarantee a smoother sale.
