20 Easy Fixes To Do Before You List Your Home

When selling your home, it's best to prepare your home for an inspection. Not only will it eliminate anxiety for you when it comes time for the home inspection, but it will also increase the appeal of your home to potential buyers.

The following is a list of 20 most common things found during home inspections. Most of these items are easy/inexpensive to fix. For the more complicated or specialty trade items be sure to hire a licensed contractor or reputable company.

1. Have your HVAC system cleaned and serviced. If repairs are needed, make them. Make sure to replace the filters as well.
2. Clean the heating and cooling registers and vacuum inside if needed.
3. Make sure all windows AND doors in your house open, close and lock. While looking, check for any potential water damage. If you find any. Fix it.
4. Replace cracked or broken window panes.
5. Check for leaks in faucets and under sinks.
6. To maximize water pressure, clean out grime in faucet filters.
7. Make sure all toilets flush properly and do not "wobble". If wobbly, replace wax ring and bolt down firmly.
8. Make sure all light fixtures and light bulbs are working.
9. Ensure that tubs and sinks drain freely.
10. Caulk around tubes and showers.
11. Inspect rood and make repairs if needed.
12. Clean gutters and ensure downspouts extend away from the foundation.
13. Ensure all appliances are on and the power light is lit.
14. Run all appliances if the house has been sitting vacant. Listen for odd noises and check for leaks.
15. Make sure there is adequate room to access appliances, electrical panels, and heating and cooling units. Remove boxes. stored items and debris from the areas; at least 3 feet of work space is recommended. Attics, garages, sheds, basements and crawlspaces need to be accessible as well.
16. Test electrical sockets for the correct polarity. (outlet testers are cheap at Lowe's or Home Depot)
17. Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If bedrooms do not have a smoke detector make sure to add one. As for carbon monoxide, make sure one unit is on each level.
18. Find and provide receipts on all warranties for recent repairs. (1 year or newer)
19. Inspect water shut off valve and make sure that it is accessible.
20. Remove trash cans, trim branches and brush, dispose of dead limbs and clear an accessible path are the home. (The inspection will be easier and the appearance of your house will improve as well.

On inspection day please note that it is not wise to leave pets home. Have them with you, family, friends or boarded elsewhere for the day. At the very least, secure animals in crates, kennels, or on leads away from any area the inspector will be. Please pick up dog waste from yards so the inspector doesn't step in it accidentally and track it into the house.

Please reach out if you have any questions about inspections or other items that are smart to replace or fix before selling your home. And as always, thanks for reading!