FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. – June 11, 2013 – David R. Leopold, owner of Pillar to Post Home Inspection in Fairfield County, Conn., says home sellers and their real estate professionals have an important role in preparing for a home inspection to ensure it goes smoothly.
Leopold offers up some of the following tips in a recent article in RISMedia:
1. Don’t hide what isn’t working: If an appliance isn’t working, leave a note that indicates what isn’t working and how you’re getting it fixed. Don’t try to conceal defects because it can make the inspector start to view you as dishonest and wonder what else you’re hiding.
2. Make things accessible: Ensure the location of the attic and crawlspace are identified and easy to access. Don’t make a home inspector move your belongings in order to do his or her job.
3. Check the light bulbs: If a light isn’t working, the inspector needs to determine if the fixture is inoperable. Save them time by making sure all light bulbs operate, including those in the crawlspace and attic and furnace.
4. Note septic systems: If you have a septic system in the yard, be sure to leave a sketch that includes its location. Without guidelines, home inspectors, buyers and real estate professionals may have to conduct a prolonged search for it, Leopold says.
5. Keep appliances clear: Don’t leave dirty laundry in the washing machine or dryer because the inspector will test the appliances, and he doesn’t want to pull out clothes in front of everybody. “Also, make sure your oven and stovetop are clear and clean, so we can easily test them without setting off the smoke alarm,” Leopold adds.
Source: “Ask the Experts: What Should Home Sellers Do to Prepare for a Home Inspection?” RISMedia (April 16, 2013)
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