How Should You Prepare for a Home Inspection When Selling?

By Bryan David

Bryan David is one of the best REALTORS® serving Ocean Springs, Biloxi, Gulfport and the entire coast. He is a Biloxi native, military veteran and retiree, and a multi-year top-producing agent with hundreds of satisfied clients.

Are you worried that a home inspection might derail your deal? You’re not alone—many sellers share this concern. That’s why today, I will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your home is inspection-ready, helping your transaction go smoothly and stay on track. Here’s everything you need to know:

• General preparation. First things first—let’s talk about the general preparation of your home. A clean, decluttered space not only looks more appealing but also makes it easier for the inspector to access key areas. Ensure everything is accessible, from attics to crawl spaces and don’t forget to clean up those overlooked corners.

• Documentation matters. If you’ve had any recent repairs done, gather all the documentation and pass it on to your agent. Providing receipts and records for major repairs can demonstrate to the buyer that you’ve maintained the home well, which can build trust and prevent unnecessary questions.

• Exterior maintenance. Next, focus on the exterior of your home. Inspect the backyard, soffits, fascia, door jambs, and other outdoor elements. Any signs of rotten wood or damaged roof shingles should be addressed promptly. Simple fixes like trimming tree limbs or clearing bushes around the breaker box can make a big difference. Don’t forget the small details, like replacing torn or missing window screens—these inexpensive repairs can save you from a longer list of issues.

• Interior checks. Inside the home, take care of any small issues that could raise red flags. Replace burnt-out light bulbs to avoid the inspector assuming a fixture isn’t working. Fix leaky faucets, repair dripping drains under cabinets, and check the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. These little things add up, and a long list of minor repairs can make the buyer feel like the home hasn’t been well-maintained.

Remember, you won’t be present during the inspection, so be prepared to leave your home for a few hours. Keep in mind that the inspector works for the buyer—they’re going to be thorough and nit-picky, covering everything to avoid liability. Expect them to note every detail, no matter how small. Being proactive in preparing your home for inspection can significantly smooth the process and keep your deal on track.

If you have any questions or need further advice, even if you’re not in my market, please don’t hesitate to reach out. And if you or anyone you know is looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate, I’d love to help. I also have a vast network of great agents if you’re in another market—just call 228-215-1861. I look forward to hearing from you!