Home Inspection Clues

Waiting for the results of a home inspection can be a worrying time for anyone selling a house, be it a relatively new apartment or rambling heritage property, but by following a few simple rules some potential pitfalls can be neatly avoided.

In order to fine tune your home in advance of an inspection it is essential to know what's involved, and how you can identify and solve some of the commoner problems.

Obviously, any purchaser would expect the roof to be in good condition so make sure that there are no loose or damaged shingles and that all guttering is in good working order.

An inspector will be sure to look closely at all exterior elements such as the general condition of doors and windows, decks, porches and the building's sidings. Walk slowly around your property and imagine that you are viewing the house as a potential buyer, you may be surprised by what you notice through someone else's eyes. If you see any cracks have them looked at by a professional to asses the causes, and have the necessary repairs implemented.

A thorough inspection of the interior should include checking the overall condition of your walls, floors and ceilings throughout. Damp can be a major issue and basements will receive close scrutiny.

The state and general repair of stairs, railings, built-in cabinets, kitchen countertops, and such, will say much about the overall condition of a property. They will indicate to an inspector how well a home has been generally maintained.

All plumbing, electrical and heating systems and associated appliances should be in good, safe working order, and they will be assessed for energy proficiency. Electrical wiring is a particularly common cause for concern as are bathroom and kitchen leaks. An in-depth check of the property's insulation and ventilation will rank high on the priorities of any home inspector, so ensure that you have the appropriate measures in place.

By taking time out to check some of these vital things, and by acting on any small repairs, you may leave prospective buyers with few worries and better still, fewer issues that could cause them to offer a lower price for your home.