Is a pre-home inspection really worth it?

Have you been told to be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection? Let me explain why this is a very good idea. Typically a home inspection is done to discover any 'unknown' property defects such things like mis-wired electrical panels, water intrusion in the attic, loose tiles or shingles, mold, non-functioning electrical outlets etc.  It is the buyer's responsibility to hire and pay for their home inspection so you may think it a duplicate effort and expense but this is not the case.


In today's buyer's market you want your home to stand out above all your competition. I have seen time and time again, where a buyer and seller agree on a price and terms of the contract. The home inspection is completed, there are issues discovered, and the buyer and seller cannot come to terms on repair, or the buyer walks away altogether. This is totally avoidable by having a pre-home inspection, repair the warranted defects, and leave a copy of the home inspection and repair notes for the prospective buyer.

Think of it like this...when you buy a used car, you are expecting a car-fax report, right? This is relatable as your home and car are most likely two of the largest and most important purchases you make. Would you want to purchase a used-vehicle that after taking a closer look, you see an oil leak or the windshield wipers don't work? Would you wonder why these defects were not disclosed? And, assuming you still want the vehicle, would you likely want a larger price reduction than the actual cost of repairs? The same applies to a home purchase.

So, consider having the pre-inspection and making it available to potential buyers. Not only will it be valuable for you and your REALTOR in setting the list price, but it will put you one step ahead of your competition.