How to Prepare for a Home Inspection: A Seller's Guide
If you're selling your home, the home inspection is a crucial step in the process. It can be the deciding factor for a potential buyer—and often influences the final sale price, repair negotiations, or whether the deal closes at all.
At Elevate Inspections, we’ve worked with thousands of homeowners throughout California, and we know how important it is to make a great first impression during a home inspection. Whether you're a first-time seller or a seasoned mover, here’s how to prepare like a pro.
Why Preparing Matters
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A well-prepared home inspection can:
Prevent unnecessary delays
Avoid surprises or last-minute renegotiations
Show buyers your home is well cared for
Speed up the closing process
Buyers are more confident when they see a clean, maintained, and accessible home—and so is the inspector.
10 Steps to Prepare for a Home Inspection
1. Clean and Declutter
A clean home doesn’t just look better—it signals that you've taken care of the property. Tidy up rooms, remove excess clutter, and make sure all spaces are accessible.
2. Unlock Everything
Inspectors need full access to:
Attics
Basements
Electrical panels
Water heaters
HVAC units
Garage and sheds
Crawlspaces
Unlock gates, electrical boxes, and utility closets in advance.
3. Leave Keys and Remotes
If access requires keys or garage remotes, leave them labeled and visible. This avoids delays and ensures every area gets checked properly.
4. Test All Lights and Fixtures
Replace burnt-out bulbs so the inspector can verify fixtures are functional. If a light doesn’t turn on, it might be flagged as a potential electrical issue.
5. Check for Leaks
Look under sinks and around toilets for signs of drips or moisture. Fix minor leaks beforehand—inspectors will note anything that could indicate water damage or plumbing issues.
6. Change HVAC Filters
A clean air filter shows your heating and cooling system is maintained. It’s a small step that makes a big impression.
7. Ensure Appliances Are Operational
Dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, garbage disposals, and washers/dryers (if included in the sale) should be working. If they’re not, let the inspector know in advance.
8. Trim Landscaping Away from the Home
Clear vegetation away from the siding, roof, and foundation. Overgrown plants can hide moisture damage, pests, or cracks.
9. Handle Minor Repairs Ahead of Time
Fix that squeaky door, re-caulk a tub, or tighten that loose handrail. Minor issues add up in an inspection report—and can give buyers bargaining power.
10. Plan to Be Away During the Inspection
Give the inspector and buyer space to complete the process. Home inspections typically take 2–4 hours. Leave your pets secured or take them with you if possible.
Bonus: Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection
Want to go a step further? A pre-listing inspection lets you identify and fix issues before putting your home on the market. This gives you more control, confidence, and negotiation power.
Final Thoughts: Set Yourself Up for Success
A smooth home inspection helps everyone—especially the seller. By taking a little time to prepare, you can reduce buyer concerns, avoid unnecessary delays, and show that your home is worth every penny.
