Report Check

By preparing your home ahead of time you can speed up the sale of your home and you will have less concerns that will delay closing.

1) Make sure that the utilities are turned on such as the water, electrical and gas.

2) Make sure your pets won't hinder the home inspection process. Ideally, they should be removed from the premises or secured outside. Notify your real estate agent if there are going to be any pets at home during the home inspection.

3) Replace any light bulbs that may be burned out to avoid a "light is inoperable" report that might suggest an electrical problem.

4) Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace any dead batteries.

5) Remove and replace any dirty furnace filters. make sure that they fit the entire opening and that they are secure.

6) Remove stacked wood that may be near the foundation. These may be noted as being conducive conditions for termites.

7) Remove any items that may be blocking the HVAC equipment, the electrical service panel, the water heater, the attic opening or the crawl space opening.

8) Unlock any areas that your home inspector may have to access such as the attic door, the door to the basement or any exterior gates.

9) Trim any tree limbs that are within ten feet of the roof. Trim any shrubs that are too close to the house and  can hide pests or hold moisture against the exterior.

10) Repair or replace any broken or missing items, such as door knobs, locks or latches, windowpanes or screens, gutters or downspouts or chimney caps.

Checking these areas before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property.