The Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist for Sellers

The modern home seller is proactive, informed, and doesn’t mind buyer inspections. How? with a home inspection checklist for sellers. Let’s see what this checklist includes and how it paves the way for a smooth sale.

Home Inspection Checklist for Sellers

Here’s an easy-to-follow home inspection checklist for sellers focusing on basic observation:

Exterior Inspection

• Roof: Look for curled, missing, or broken shingles. See if the rooflines are uneven, and make sure there’s no sign of leak (stain, dark patch). Check gutters and downspouts for clogs and remove piled-up debris.
• Foundation: Inspect the walls for cracks, settling, or bulging. Look for uneven areas around the foundation and pay attention to the grading; the soil must slope away from the house to prevent water pooling.
• Siding and Walls: Your home inspection checklist for sellers should cover the siding as well. Search for discoloration, loose boards, holes, or wood dust indicating pest infestation.
• Doors and Windows: Look for broken glass, damaged frames, peeling paint, and deterioration in seals. The main inspection remains for the inside.
• Garage and Driveway: Check the driveway for cracks, holes, or unevenness. Make sure the garage door operates smoothly. The walls and floors are prone to moisture or structural damage, so look for their signs.
• Decks and Patios: Inspect the area and see if there are any loose boards, rot, or decay. Assess the condition of railings and steps, too.
• Landscaping: Trees or bushes shouldn’t touch the house, so trim if needed. Remove any pests or nests you find, and ensure the lawn drains properly.

Interior Inspection

• Kitchen: For the interior, the home inspection checklist for sellers starts with the heart of the house. Inspect cabinets top to bottom, as well as sinks and faucets for leaks. All the appliances should work, and there must be functional GFCI outlets within 6 feet of the sink.
• Bathrooms: Check the caulking around the tub, toilet, tiles, etc. for cracks, gaps, or moldy grout. Look for water stains on ceilings and walls, too. Finish bathroom evaluation by using the faucets and flushing toilets to see if they run or leak.
• Living Areas and Bedrooms: Look for uneven floors or doors that stick. Check walls and ceilings for cracks, water stains, or discoloration. If you feel musty odors, there might be hidden moisture or mold.
• Basement and Foundation: Scan the walls for damp spots and efflorescence. Look for breaks or rot on exposed beams. Ensure the floor is dry, without mold or mildew.
• Attic: If applicable, the house inspection checklist for sellers should include the attic as well. The area should have proper insulation, ventilation, and zero water damage.
• Doors and Windows: Ensure everything opens, closes, and locks effortlessly. Look for drafts near frames (use a lit lighter to confirm it) and signs of mold around insulation areas.

Other Systems and Areas

When preparing your version of a home inspection checklist for sellers, consider other areas and/or components, including:

• Plumbing: Listen for unusual noises from pipes, especially when using the facilities.
• Electrical: Don’t test anything electrical yourself! Focus on visible damage to outlets and switches. Loose, exposed wires are also a red flag.
• HVAC: Test the thermostat, listen for unusual noises, clean air filters, and see if all the vents have adequate airflow.
• Safety: Make sure all safety systems, like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, are functional.

What to Do After Self-Inspection as a Seller

Document the findings with details and prioritize repairs based on budget and severity. Repair obvious, minor issues to increase the property's appeal. For major issues, get quotes and decide whether to repair or let the buyer deal with them; although you’ll probably have to reduce the price or give credit.

Finally, consult with your agent to discuss the best way to incorporate the findings into your listing and disclosure. Failing to disclose known issues can have legal consequences and complicate the sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use a home inspection checklist for sellers?

It helps you find and address issues in advance, leading to a quick sale and full transparency with buyers.

How detailed should my checklist be?

As detailed as possible! If you need a reference, check out this free checklist template.

Can I use a checklist in place of a professional home inspection?

Although a house inspection checklist for sellers is helpful, it doesn’t replace an in-depth assessment by an experienced inspector.

How do I find a qualified inspector for my house?

Look for professionals certified through reputable organizations such as InterNACHI. You can also submit your request at Houmse to quickly find the best inspectors in your region and get free quotes.

Should I make all the repairs before listing my house?

Disclosing is necessary, but you’re not obligated to fix everything. However, addressing safety or structural problems usually speeds up the sale.

Conclusion

A home inspection checklist for sellers enables you to launch your house, not just list it. Conduct your own inspection, document your findings, address the issues accordingly, and see the difference proactive preparation makes.