As an Alpharetta Home Inspector I see things all the time that could be done to help the Sellers with the home inspection process. Sellers can speed up their home inspection by following these suggestions.

The inspection will go smoother, with fewer concerns that may delay their closing.

1. Confirm that water, electric and gas service are on, with gas pilot lights burning.
2. Remove any items blocking access to HVAC equipment, electric service panels, water heaters, attics and crawl spaces.
3. Unlock areas the inspector must access - fence gates, attic doors or hatches, electric service panels, closets, and crawl spaces.
4. Make sure pets won't hinder the inspection. Ideally, they should be removed from premises. Tell your agent about any pets at your home.
5. Replace burned out bulbs to avoid a "Light is inoperable" report that may suggest an electrical problem.
6. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries.
7. Clean or replace dirty HVAC air filters. They should fit securely.
8. Attend to broken or missing items like doorknobs, locks and latches; windowpanes, screens and locks; gutters, downspouts and chimney caps.
9. Lower the grade 6" all the way around the home.
10. Trim tree limbs to 10' from the roof and shrubs from the house to allow access.

Checking these areas before your home inspection is an investment in selling your property. Your real estate agent will thank you!