What Every Seller Should Know About Northern Virginia Home Inspections

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Home inspections can make or break a northern Virginia home sale

This article covers what every seller should know about Northern Virginia home inspections.

Invest in a Pre-Listing Inspection

All sellers need to get a pre-listing inspection. Even though you may think your home is move-in ready, chances are there are some issues you might not be aware of.

A professional home inspector will survey your home to determine any possible repairs that need to be made during a pre-listing inspection.

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A pre-listing inspection is done to make sure you are aware of any issues, so you can either have them repaired or disclose them to potential buyers.

Inspectors will evaluate the main structural elements of your home, such as the foundation, siding, and roof. They can also complete a comprehensive inspection report that contains interior components such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.

Investing in a pre-listing inspection can help sellers uncover any problems and prepare for any necessary repairs.

Don’t Keep Any Repairs Secret

The majority of the states in the U.S. require sellers to disclose all of a home’s known defects. Virginia, however, is one of six states that still follows an old common-law called caveat emptor - a Latin phrase that translates to “let the buyer beware.”

In real estate, caveat emptor means the buyer gets the house “as-is.”

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Buyers in Northern Virginia will find their protection in the Closing Disclosure - a legal document where the seller is required to list any concerns, repairs, or known damage. 

When it is time for the home inspection, let the inspector know about any water leaks or structural repairs. They will take this information into account during their assessment of your home.

Because any buyer represented by a seasoned agent will understand caveat emptor, it would suit buyers to be utterly transparent concerning any issues about their property. 

Prepare For the Home Inspection

Preparing for the home inspection shouldn’t entail any costly repairs.

It is common for sellers to get a little nervous throughout the home inspection process. No one wants to get stuck with expensive repairs or have the deal fall through.

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Thankfully, there are a few things you can do in preparation for your home inspection.

Begin by collecting any documents that have to do with your home; this includes receipts for any purchases such as appliances or HVAC systems.

Be sure that the inspector has easy access to areas that need to be checked and clear clutter around the systems in your home. Keep in mind the inspector will need to access underneath sinks, basements, and attics.

Your roof is a vital part of your home inspection. It is a good idea to look up there and clean any debris out of your gutters. And check on any missing tile.

Many people don’t realize how critical working bulbs are when having a home inspection. If a bulb is out, it may suggest to the inspector there is some faulty wiring.

Making sure your house is nice and tidy, and ready for your home inspection will make the process much easier for you and your home inspector.

Master the Art of Negotiation 

Home inspectors will spend a few hours exploring your home from the roof to the basement. And since they are checking all the major systems in your home, chances are they will find some issues.

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Typically, once a buyer reviews the home inspection report, they will request repairs or credits toward purchasing the home. However, in today’s seller’s market, many buyers are not requesting repairs or credits.

For Northern Virginia homeowners with homes that need repairs but don’t want to invest the money, this market is a perfect time to sell your house as-is and most likely get the listing price.

Northern Virginia Sellers Should Defer to Their Agent About Home Inspection Specifics

Every seller wants to sell their house to the highest bidder. If you have been concerned about fixing repairs on your home to get top dollar for your property - this is a great time to speak to a realtor.

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Most buyers will request a home inspection. However, many of them will happily take your home as-is. Spend a little money getting a pre-listing inspection and be honest with buyers about any repairs your home needs. The last thing you want to do is keep a known default from your buyer.

Honesty goes a long way in today’s hot market - it may be what sets you apart from other sellers.