16 May Home Inspections for Sellers: Are They a Waste of Money?

Importance of Home Inspections

We are real estate agents in St. Louis, and home sellers often ask us, “Do I really need a home inspection? Aren’t inspections mostly for the buyer?” If you’re selling a home, you should get a “pre-sale” home inspection. It’s well worth the money. Although considered a must for home buyers, many sellers don’t realize the importance of a home inspection prior to listing.

So, why is a home inspection important when selling a home? Investing a few hundred dollars on a home inspection up front can eliminate potential surprises, save you money on any repairs, and give you an edge in negotiating the sale.

Here are just 4 reasons why you should invest in a home inspection before selling your home:

Reason #1: Eliminate Potential Surprises

According to the US General Accounting Office, more than 85% of home buyers requested a home inspection before sale. If a buyer is serious about your home, they’re going to have an inspection. In most cases, a buyer’s offer is contingent on the home inspection.

Put simply; you don’t want to be caught off guard. Issues raised by home inspections can negatively impact your home sale. Home inspection issues give buyers negotiating power, which can result in a lower sale price.

Reason #2: Save Money on Repairs

A home inspection can save you money on any necessary repairs, too. It takes time to find the right contractor for a repair. And no matter what you’re looking for, it pays to get multiple estimates. Having a home inspection done before listing will give you time to find the best, most cost-effective solution to any potential problem.

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Reason #3: Set the Right Tone

Buyers want to work with sellers that are open and transparent about their home, and a pre-sale home inspection is a great way to reassure them. Disclosing issues prior to a sale can also protect you from potential lawsuits down the road.

Reason #4: Show Off Your Home’s Selling Points

You can turn your home inspection into a powerful selling tool. If you’ve invested in significant improvements, like added insulation, upgraded electrical or heating systems, a glowing report from a home inspector is a great way to highlight those attractive features. You’re not required to get a home inspection prior to listing your home for sale. But a pre-sale home inspection can save you money, time, potential headaches, and most importantly, boost the sale price of your home.

Not a bad return on a few hundred bucks, right?