According to a December market trends report released Tuesday by the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors in the Gazette, single-family and patio home sales totaled 18,159 in 2021 as compared to the previous year’s 17,337. Those are record setting figures and show a strong housing market in Colorado. Unsurprisingly, everyone wants to reap the benefits of record-high sales and selling prices.

If you have jumped on the bandwagon and want to sell your home, remember to have a property inspection before listing it on the market. Pre-listing property inspections are designed to ensure that you make an educated decision before you commit to selling your home. It’s important to choose a certified home inspector in Colorado to reap the benefits associated with conducting a pre-listing property inspection. Find out more about the benefits shared in this article!

The Main Benefits Of Having A Pre- Listing Inspection?

The first and most obvious benefit of conducting a pre-listing property inspection is that it can give you a realistic idea of your home’s value. An inspection can alert you to any necessary repairs or improvements that need to be made before listing your home, which can help you price it more accurately. In addition, if there are any serious problems with your home, an inspection can allow you to fix them before potential buyers see them and use them as bargaining chips.

Another benefit of having a pre-listing inspection is that it can help speed up the selling process. If buyers know that your home has already been inspected and that any necessary repairs have been made, they may be more likely to make an offer without requesting their inspection. This can save you time and money in the long run.

Overall, conducting a pre-listing property inspection is a smart move for any homeowner planning to sell their home. It can provide valuable information about your home’s value and condition and help you avoid potential problems down the road.

Why Conduct a Pre-Listing Property Inspection?

When selling your home, a pre-listing property inspection can help you avoid any surprises during the negotiation process and ensure you get paid the best price.  In addition, a pre-listing inspection can give buyers confidence that they are purchasing a well-maintained home. This can help speed up the selling process and make finding a top buyer willing to pay your asking price easier.

Certified home inspectors in Colorado can conduct a pre-listing property inspection. Pre-listing inspections are beneficial because they allow the seller to be aware of any potential issues with their home before buyers can point them out. This gives the seller time to make repairs or disclosures before negotiations with buyers. If you are considering conducting a pre-listing inspection, it is important to do so as early as possible. This will give you ample time to make necessary repairs or disclosures before potential buyers come looking at your home.

What To Look For During an Inspection

As a seller, it is in your best interest to conduct a pre-listing inspection on your property. This will help you identify potential problems that could sway a buyer’s decision and give you time to make necessary repairs. Here are some things to look for during an inspection: 

  1. Roof condition – Look for missing, damaged, or lost shingles. Also, check for any leaks, rust spots, or other damage.
  2. Gutters and downspouts – Ensure they are securely attached and debris-free.
  3. Foundation – Check for cracks, settlement, or other damage.
  4. Walls and ceilings – Look for cracks, water stains, or other signs of damage.
  5. Windows and doors – Check for cracked or broken glass and drafty areas around doors and windows.
  6. Plumbing – Check for leaks under sinks and around toilets. Also, test all faucets and showers/tubs to ensure they are in good working order.
  7. Electrical – Test all outlets to ensure they are working properly. Also, check for any exposed wiring or electrical hazards.

What Are Some Common Items to Inspect and Replace on the Premises?

It is important to know what to repair or replace from the list on the home inspection report after the pre-listing property inspection. This allows you to save money by addressing necessary repairs or maintenance items that should be completed before potential buyers view the property and the ones that can be put off for now. Additionally, being proactive in this way can help to expedite the selling process, save money and avoid any stressful surprises down the road.

Some common items that home inspectors will look at during a pre-listing inspection and suggest you repair before selling your home include the roof, gutters, windows, doors, and problems with the electrical system. You should also repair any  water damage, mold, pests, or other structural issues. It is best to take care of these problems before listing the property. By doing so, you can avoid any last-minute scrambling or potential sales delays.

What Is the Cost of a Pre-Listing Property Inspection?

The cost of a pre-listing property inspection varies depending on the size and location of the home, as well as the inspector’s fees. However, the national average price for most general home inspections is between $320 – $350. for their services. 

What other options can property owners consider if they choose not to have a pre-listing property inspection before selling their home?

For various reasons, some property owners may choose not to conduct a pre-listing property inspection. Perhaps they feel that their home is in good condition and does not warrant an inspection. Maybe they are selling their home as-is and do not want to incur the cost of an inspection. Or, they could be in a situation where they need to sell quickly and cannot afford to wait for an inspector. 

If you are a property owner who is considering not having a pre-listing inspection, there are some other options that you can consider. One option is to consider a buyer’s home inspection after an offer has been accepted. This type of inspection is typically paid for by the buyer and can give them peace of mind knowing they are purchasing a sound home. Another option is to have a walk-through with the buyer before closing. This allows the buyer to see the condition of the home firsthand and ask any questions they may have.

No matter what decision you make regarding a pre-listing inspection, it is important to be honest with potential buyers about the condition of your home. If there are any known issues, be sure to disclose them upfront, so there are no surprises down the road. Colorado is one of the states where home inspectors are not regulated by law; hence buyers and sellers involved in real estate transactions must be diligent.