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                        4 Tips To Help Your Home Inspection Go Smoothly
                                                                                                      by Kent Keith of Green Tag Home Inspection Services

                                                                                                                       Article reprinted from Angie's List

Selling your home can be stressful enough without having to worry about a home inspection. However, having your home ready for the inspection can actually reduce your stress and increase buyer confidence. Here are four tips to help your home inspection go smoothly.

1. Give the inspector and buyer the impression that the home has been well maintained.

When it comes time for your home inspection, make sure that you’ve covered all of your bases. Below is a list of simple items that should be handled by the homeowner before the inspection.

Make sure that all light fixtures have working bulbs.
Test all GFCI receptacles for proper operation.
Repair any cosmetic defects such as holes and cracks in drywall.
Have carpets and air ducts professionally cleaned.
Check and repair any plumbing drainpipes or leaky faucets.
Make sure all smoke detectors are in working order with fresh batteries installed.
Have your HVAC system serviced to ensure they are operating in peak performance and install fresh air filters.

2. Have the condition of your roof and foundation evaluated. 

Roof and foundation issues can stop a sale fast. If you are not sure of their conditions, hire a roofing and foundation company to evaluate them ahead of time. 

Some foundation companies will evaluate free of charge or you can hire a structural engineer. You should also make sure tree limbs are trimmed away from the roof to prevent damage.

3. Be prepared for a termite and wood destroying insect inspection. 

Conditions that are conducive for termites and other wood destroying insects will prevent a clear report. Here are tips to prevent pest problems.

Trim away all shrubs and foliage eight to 10 inches from contact with the home.
Make sure all soils surrounding the foundation are graded approximately six inches from the top of the foundation.
Remove any firewood or other wood that is in contact with the home.
Replace any rotted wood to all siding and trims.

4. Make the home accessible to prevent return trips for the inspector.

Give the inspector complete access to all areas by removing stored items that may block access to the breaker panel, attic, water heater and furnace. If you have pets that may hinder the inspector, remove them from the home. Showing a buyer that you took the best possible care of your home will always increase the chances of the sale going through and decrease having to repair or correct defects.