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HOME INSPECTIONS ARE IMPORTANT TO THE BUYER AND THE SELLER

By Marge Harris

Home inspection contingencies are common in residential purchase contracts today. More than 99% of buyers (whether first-time or seasoned) pay for a home inspection to learn about the condition of the home they are attempting to purchase. A quality home inspector will take the time to thoroughly examine the interior and exterior of the home as well as the garage, shed and any other outbuildings. Buyers will also be offered maintenance tips and recommendations for repairs during a home inspection.

In order to prepare for the inspection, Sellers can (and should!) follow these suggestions:

Remove (or secure) your pets. The home inspector, buyers and real estate agent need full access to the entire home and it's perimeter.


Marjorie S. Harris
Real Estate Broker
Senior Real Estate Specialist
[e-Pro Certified]

Make sure all of the systems around the home are in working order. This would include the water, gas, plumbing and electrical systems, for example.

Label breaker positions on the electrical panel. Very often you will find that your electrical panel has already been labeled. Double check!

Leave keys for any places you normally lock. This might include backyard sheds, garages, etc.

Access to everything is extremely important! Please remove any items that hinder access to the furnace, hot water heater, electrical panel, attic or crawlspace.

Empty common areas that will be checked. This would include sinks, dishwashers, ovens, washers and dryers, for example. Remember, appliances that will remain as a part of the sale will be operated during the home inspection.

Turn all computers in the home off. This is for your own safety!

Label uncommon or unusual switches. Oftentimes, especially in older homes, switches are turned on/off during a home inspection that don't appear to be doing anything. Simply labeling the switch will prove very helpful to the home inspector.

Make sure all light bulbs are in working order. Please check the interior and exterior fixtures. A home inspector is going to have to presume that a light fixture is faulty if it can't be turned on/off, and very often I have found this to simply be a burned out bulb!

Take these suggestions to heart! Your Buyers and their home inspector will appreciate it!

©2002 Marge Harris. Publication or use of this article on or off-line without written permission from Marge Harris is prohibited. If you would like to use Marge's articles on your Web site or in your publication, just email Marge for details!

Email Marge
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