Pre-Listing Inspections?...... What could this be?

We have all heard of different things for preparing our properties for listing. Home staging, updating curb appeal, painting and de-cluttering, are all different ideas to help contribute to the successful sale of a home. But here is a new one: a Pre-listing Inspection.

A home inspection is a common subject added to almost all contracts now. So why not do a Pre-Listing inspection to catch any of those little things the inspector will find and help show off how great your home is to potential Buyers. Here are a few things to check out.

1) Check that all interior and exterior doors work properly and quietly (no squeaking) and that all door knobs latch and lock properly.

2) Check that all lights work properly and that all switches in your home do something! If you have a switch that does nothing have a licensed electrician check it out and if it really does not do anything have the switch removed and a blank cover replace it.

3) Tighten all bolts that hold your toilet to the floor and the tank to the toilet. Also make sure there are no leaks.

4) Check that all your kitchen and bathroom faucets work properly and the hot and cold water are turned on by the hot and cold taps. Also insure all of your drains work and they are not slow.

5) Clean all exhaust fans and ensure they are working correctly. Any room with a shower in it should have an exhaust fan.

6) Check your stairs inside and out! Make sure all supports and railings are secured properly and replace any broken or weathered steps.

These are just a few simple things to make sure are in order before that all important offer comes in on a home.