GUEST POST: Should Sellers do a Pre-Sale Inspection?

Our guest blogger is Jon Wagner, home mortgage loan originator with Wintrust Mortgage in Eagan.  You can find more information about Jon here.

Wise buyers always do a professional inspection on a home they want to purchase.  But in the last few years, sellers have also began doing their own inspections - before putting their homes on the market.


When you're selling a home, a pre-sale inspection avoids several problems by making buyers aware of any defects before submitting an offer.  The seller's inspection may also uncover problems the seller was not even aware of.  In that case, the seller can decide whether to fix the issue or offer buyers an allowance for the repair(s).


After the pre-sale inspection, sellers should make a list of everything to be done, get estimates from contractors or handymen, and then decide what to do before putting the home up for sale.  Their real estate agent can help set priorities and advise which fixes will provide the best payback.


If the seller already knows about defects, they can correct them before the inspection.  Alternatively, they can wait and get the inspector's professional opinion of what to do.  The seller's also then have the inspector's report to show potential buyers, as well as estimates for any needed repairs.


And remember, it's always important to use a good inspector.  Real estate agents like Josh are more than happy to refer professional inspectors.


Respectfully,
Jon R. Wagner
NMLS: 331960
Company ID: 1048  


p.s.  Are you thinking of taking advantage of today's affordable home prices and historic-low mortgage rates to upsize, downsize, or refinance?  Please call or e-mail us now to discuss your situation.