The Home Inspection Can be a Marketing Tool for Motivated Sellers

It’s no secret that today’s home buyers are shopping for a good deal.
Simply put, they want their dream home at a bargain price.

“This creates a more challenging environment for home sellers,” says Virginia Cook, CEO of Virginia Cook, Realtors. “But there are strategies that have proven to be successful for those who are serious about getting their home sold.”

First, it is critical that a seller work with a Realtor who has the expertise in the local market to ensure that the property is priced accurately and marketed aggressively. Secondly, the home needs to be in the best condition possible and staged to make a positive first impression throughout the listing period.

Another tool motivated sellers can have in their arsenal is a home inspection. “One of the biggest concerns a prospective buyer has when considering making an offer on an existing home is what kind of undetected problems or flaws they may inherit,” says Ms. Cook. “By investing in a home inspection and any necessary repairs in advance, you can quell those concerns and help create a sense of confidence in the condition of your property. It’s a marketing tool that can set you apart in a competitive market.”

While your Realtor can recommend several well-qualified home inspectors from which to choose, there are six factors to consider when hiring the right professional:

1. Qualifications. Ask open-ended questions about the inspector's training and experience as it relates to home inspections. The inspector should have some training in construction and building maintenance standards and a track-record of experience in the home inspection business. Depending on the location and age of the home, you may need to hire an inspector who's qualified to deal with asbestos, lead-based paint or other potentially hazardous substances.

2. Scope. Ask the inspector which components of the property are -- and are not -- included in his or her inspection. Will the inspector check out the roof, swimming pool, built-in appliances?

3. Sample report. Ask the inspector to provide a sample of his or her checklist or inspection report. Does the report include a narrative description or just check-off boxes? Is the information presented and explained clearly and completely?

4. References. Ask the inspector for the names and telephone numbers of several homeowners who have used his or her services. Call those people and ask them whether they were satisfied with the report and other services they received.

5. Memberships. Many good inspectors don't belong to a national or state association of home inspectors. However, an association membership is often a plus. These groups provide their members with training and certification programs and up-to-date information about industry practices and inspection standards.

6. Errors and omissions. Even top-notch inspectors are only human and can make errors or overlook problems they probably should have noticed. Ask about the company's policy in such situations. Does the company have insurance for errors and omissions? Does the company or individual inspector stand behind the report? Many companies ask customers to sign a waiver limiting the company's liability to the cost of the inspection.

For more information about home inspections and tips on how to get your home sold in today’s market, please contact Virginia Cook, Realtors.