In a previous post, we gave you tips and tricks to make painting and texturing your house a little easier. And while the job is definitely simpler if you have a clear path to follow, you may have discovered that painting and remodeling can be hard work. Trust me, I know. But are you willing to do that hard work even if you’re selling your house and won’t be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor? You should be!
Unless your home’s potential buyer is planning on knocking it over and building a new house from scratch, its condition matters to the buyer. It is an investment, after all. And aside from making the house look more appealing, remodeling and repairing your house will help increase its value and give you an edge while talking price. It will also help with a step in the selling process that could make or break a deal – The Home Inspection. But don’t worry! The home inspection isn’t scary if you know what to expect (even when you use capital letters).
In this blog, we’ll dive into things to test, check and repair on the interior of your home before its inspection:
1. Appliances – If they’re included in the sale, then it’s important they work well. From the kitchen to the garage, appliances will be tested. The inspector will turn on the stove and oven and make sure their features are all in working order. He or she will do the same for the dishwasher, washer and dryer, refrigerator, water heater, and garage door opener. Beat him or her to the punch and inspect all these items on your own. Make the necessary fixes or replacements to avoid a poor score on the inspection.
2. Electrical Outlets – It may seem daunting, but check to make sure each electrical outlet in your house is working as intended. You can do this with an actual outlet tester, or by plugging in a lamp to see if it’ll turn on. This advice is good for interior and exterior outlets.
3. Lights and Fans – While you’re walking around checking outlets, do yourself a favor and flip on the light switches. Make sure each bulb turns on and replace any that don’t. Turn on all ceiling fans and make sure they’re in working order. If not, then replace them. Go ahead and change any light bulbs attached to them that are burnt out as well.
4. Plumbing (sinks, showers, toilets, and tubs) – Fill each sink and make sure it drains as it should. Then test if each toilet flushes and is sturdily secured to the floor. Apply fresh grout between shower tiles and fill in cracked caulk between the sink and the wall and do the same for the tub if needed. Check for any leaks behind toilets and sinks. Each of these things will be checked by the inspector as well.
5. Windows and Floors – While it might seem obvious to fix broken glass window panes, be sure to open each window. Make sure all the windows open, close, and lock easily. Walk around to see if there are any loose or squeaky floorboards and repair them if necessary.
6. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Use the test button to make sure these are working. It’s not a bad idea to replace their batteries either. You should do this from time to time, regardless of an upcoming inspection, just to make sure these life-saving devices are working properly.
Other things to check for:
– Look to see if there are any moisture stains on the walls or ceiling inside the house and repair any you find.
– Fix any cracks in the drywall if there are any.
– If your house has a second story, then make sure the railing on the staircase is sturdy.
To void getting overwhelmed, pace yourself and check one category at a time.
You’ll be done with the interior of your house before you know it! Be sure to check back here next week to learn how to prepare the
the exterior of your house for a home inspection.
