{"id":108265,"date":"2025-12-15T10:02:23","date_gmt":"2025-12-15T18:02:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=108265"},"modified":"2025-12-15T10:02:25","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T18:02:25","slug":"how-to-prepare-for-a-home-inspection-seller","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-prepare-for-a-home-inspection-seller\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare for a Home Inspection Before You List Your Home"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Figuring out how to prepare for a home inspection before you list your home comes down to three things: <\/span><b>make every major system easy to access, knock out small but telling maintenance fixes, and set the house up so the inspector can work safely and efficiently.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A little prep now helps the inspection reflect your home\u2019s true condition, reduces the chance of preventable red flags, and keeps your sale on track<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this Redfin guide, we\u2019ll share a simple, seller-friendly <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rocketmortgage.com\/learn\/home-inspection-checklist\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home inspection checklist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to help you get your house ready with confidence, whether you&#8217;re selling your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/6089\/AZ\/Flagstaff\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home in Flagstaff, AZ<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/11455\/TX\/Lubbock\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lubbock, TX<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-ast-global-color-4-background-color has-background wp-block-paragraph\"><b>In this article:<\/b><br \/><a href=\"#h-1-start-with-access-make-every-key-area-easy-to-reach\">1. <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with access: make every key area easy to reach<\/span><br \/><\/a><a href=\"#h-2-do-the-small-high-impact-fixes-first\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Do the small, high-impact fixes first<\/span><br \/><\/a><a href=\"#h-3-prep-the-exterior-and-utility-areas\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Prep the exterior and utility areas<\/span><br \/><\/a><a href=\"#h-4-inspection-day-logistics-pets-occupancy-and-helpful-extras\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Inspection-day logistics: pets, occupancy, and helpful extras<\/span><br \/><\/a><a href=\"#h-final-pre-inspection-checklist\">Final pre-inspection checklist<br \/><\/a><a href=\"#h-how-to-prepare-for-a-home-inspection-final-thoughts\">How to prepare for a home inspection: final thoughts<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-start-with-access-make-every-key-area-easy-to-reach\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Start with access: make every key area easy to reach<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before the inspector arrives, do a quick sweep to make sure nothing they need to evaluate is blocked or hard to get to. Jon McCreath, Training Director at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/npiweb.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Property Inspections, Inc.<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, explains, \u201cBecause a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-inspection\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home inspection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a visual, non-invasive assessment, it\u2019s important to provide the inspector with easy, unobstructed access to all key areas of the property.\u201d&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In other words, if something can\u2019t be safely reached, it may be marked as not inspected, which can raise avoidable questions for buyers. McCreath also suggests removing all pets from the home on inspection day for everyone\u2019s safety and comfort.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus first on the most important access points:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Interior access<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Create clear paths<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to mechanical systems and appliances, especially the HVAC system, water heater, electrical panel, and under-the-sink plumbing.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Move items<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that block attic or crawlspace entrances.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Keep garage doors unobstructed<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> so they can be opened and tested.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Exterior access<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Remove obstacles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> around the foundation, including brush, leaves, outdoor d\u00e9cor, and garbage cans.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Clear clutter<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> near siding, grading, and along the roofline so the inspector can evaluate the exterior safely.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Unlock gates, sheds, and any utility areas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> they\u2019ll need to enter.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-do-the-small-high-impact-fixes-first\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Do the small, high-impact fixes first<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After you\u2019ve cleared access, spend a little time on quick <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-maintenance-tips\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home maintenance tasks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that can make a big difference in the inspection report. These are usually inexpensive, fast to tackle, and help prevent small issues from being flagged as larger concerns. Think of it as giving your home a clean bill of health on the basics before the inspector arrives.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A good pre-inspection punch list includes:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Easy maintenance wins<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Replace any burned-out or dim light bulbs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> so every fixture can be tested.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Swap in a clean HVAC<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or furnace filter.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and replace batteries if needed.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Tighten doorknobs, railings, handles, or cabinet hardware<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to make sure they\u2019re not loose.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Fix slow drips or minor leaks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at faucets and under sinks.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Small repairs worth doing<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Make sure toilets flush properly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and don\u2019t run.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Confirm exhaust fans work <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">in both the bathrooms and kitchen.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Check windows and doors<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> properly open, close, and lock smoothly.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Address any loose fixtures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or wobbly outlet covers.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mike Smith, Field Services Assistant at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lunspro.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LunsPro Inspection Group<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, points out, \u201cReplacing burnt-out bulbs, changing air filters, and addressing small leaks or loose fixtures helps ensure the inspection reflects the home\u2019s true condition.\u201d Simple fixes keep the inspector focused on the home\u2019s overall condition, not avoidable distractions. And while you\u2019re at it, take a minute to tidy exterior areas too so they can safely evaluate siding, grading, and the roofline without obstacles in the way.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-prep-the-exterior-and-utility-areas\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Prep the exterior and utility areas<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A home inspection covers more than the interior, so give the outside of your home the same attention you\u2019d give a showing. Inspectors need to walk the perimeter, look at grading and drainage, and access every utility or outbuilding. If something is blocked or locked, it may be documented as \u201cnot inspected,\u201d which can slow down negotiations later.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cBefore your inspection, ensure the entire home is easily accessible, including the attic, crawlspace, garage, furnace, water heater, and electrical panel,\u201d advises Dan Kopp, Construction Consultant, Certified Professional Real Estate Home Inspector, and president of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/boiseinspector.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valley Home Inspection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cClear personal items away from sinks, appliances, and mechanical equipment so the inspector can safely reach and evaluate them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A quick exterior and utility-area sweep should include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Exterior access and visibility<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Remove leaves, brush, and debris<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> around the foundation.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Move garbage cans, patio furniture, planters, or decor<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> away from siding and exterior walls.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Trim back overgrowth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> so inspectors can see rooflines, vents, and surfaces.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Clear walkways, steps, and side yards<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to reduce slip or trip hazards.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Gates, garages, and outbuildings<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Unlock spaces<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as gates, sheds, detached garages, and any storage areas.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Clear paths<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to garage doors so they can be opened and tested.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Make sure crawlspace doors or attic ladders are reachable<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and unblocked.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Utilities and mechanical areas<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Clear storage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> away from the furnace, water heater, and electrical panel.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Unlock utility closets<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or exterior meter areas.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the home is vacant, <\/span><b>confirm water, gas, and power are on<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> so systems can be fully tested.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-inspection-day-logistics-pets-occupancy-and-helpful-extras\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Inspection-day logistics: pets, occupancy, and helpful extras<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even if your home is fully prepped, a few details can make the appointment smoother, more efficient, and avoid <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/things-that-fail-a-home-inspection\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home inspection fails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The goal is to remove friction so the inspector can focus on evaluating the home, not navigating distractions or tracking down what they need to operate systems.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with the basics:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Pets and people<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Secure pets<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in a kennel, take them off-site, or arrange for a sitter so the inspector can move freely and safely.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Plan to be out of the home<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during the inspection if you can; it often helps the process go faster and keeps everyone comfortable.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you do stay, <\/span><b>give the inspector space<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and save questions for the wrap-up.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once that\u2019s handled, think about anything the inspector might need to test your home properly. \u201cHomeowners can prepare for a smooth home inspection by ensuring clear access to all major systems\u2026 so nothing slows the process down; many home inspectors will not move anything that is breakable,\u201d shares Amy Newcomer, founder of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.atihomeinspectortraining.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ATI Home Inspector Training<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cIt\u2019s also helpful to replace burned-out bulbs, test safety alarms, change the furnace filter, and take care of small maintenance items ahead of time,\u201d Newcomer recommends. \u201cMake sure pets are secured and leave out any remotes, keys, or manuals the inspector may need to operate equipment.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With that in mind, set the inspector up for a complete visit:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Helpful items to leave out<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Remotes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for ceiling fans, fireplaces, mini-splits, or other smart home systems.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Keys, codes, or access instructions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for gates, sheds, panels, and utility closets.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Manuals or quick notes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for anything that\u2019s tricky to operate.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Final safety sweep<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Turn on lights<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and confirm every room is accessible.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Label or note anything<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that\u2019s out of order.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Make sure security systems won\u2019t accidentally trigger<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during the visit.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-pre-inspection-checklist\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Final pre-inspection checklist<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the big prep work done, a final room-by-room sweep helps catch anything easy to miss and ensures the inspector can test every system without interruption.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hank Spinnler, owner of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/harmonyinspection.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Harmony Home Inspection Services<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, recommends a practical <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-inspection-checklist\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home inspection checklist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mindset: \u201cReplace any blown light bulbs. Make sure all appliances, including fireplaces with pilot lights, are on and user ready. Remove any obstructions to accessibility of the attic access, crawl space access, HVAC systems and filters, electrical panels, and water heaters. Provide instructions on anything that may be unsafe or considered \u2018out of order\u2019.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use these last checks to guide your walkthrough:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Clear access everywhere<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Attic hatch and crawlspace entrances are unblocked.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Electrical panel is fully visible and reachable.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pathways to HVAC, furnace, and water heater are clear.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Under-sink areas are emptied for plumbing checks.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Garage doors and openers can be tested without obstacles.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gates, sheds, outbuildings, and utility closets are unlocked.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Quick, high-impact fixes<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replace burned-out or dim bulbs.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Change HVAC or furnace filters if needed.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fix small leaks, loose fixtures, or wobbly hardware.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirm toilets flush properly and don\u2019t run.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure windows and doors open, close, and lock smoothly.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Declutter where practical so inspectors can see walls, floors, and systems clearly.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Systems ready to test<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All utilities are on (water, electric, gas), especially if the home is vacant.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appliances are accessible, plugged in, and working.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fireplaces are on and user-ready, including pilot lights if applicable.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thermostat and equipment controls are easy to find and operate.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have a jetted tub that hasn\u2019t been used in a while, run and clean it so it can be tested.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Exterior prep<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brush, leaves, and debris are cleared away from the foundation.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bins, d\u00e9cor, and furniture are moved away from siding and grading.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Walkways, steps, and side yards are tidy and safe to navigate.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overgrowth is trimmed back enough to view roofline and vents.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/tips-and-home-inspection-checklist-for-sellers\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><b>Inspection day tips<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pets are secured off-site or in a kennel.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remotes, keys, and manuals are left out for any special equipment.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leave simple instructions for anything that\u2019s unsafe, delicate, or \u201cout of order.\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan to be away during the inspection if possible so the inspector can work efficiently.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-prepare-for-a-home-inspection-final-thoughts\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to prepare for a home inspection: final thoughts<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preparing for a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rocketmoney.com\/learn\/homeownership\/why-home-inspections-are-important\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home inspection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> isn\u2019t about perfection, it\u2019s about making the home easy to evaluate. Clear access to major systems, tackle a few small fixes, and handle simple safety and day-of details so the inspector can work efficiently. This helps the report reflect your home\u2019s true condition and lowers the chance of delays or surprise negotiations. A little prep now can go a long way toward keeping your sale smooth and on schedule.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Figuring out how to prepare for a home inspection before you list your home comes down to three things: make every major system easy to access, knock out small but telling maintenance fixes, and set the house up so the inspector can work safely and efficiently. A little prep now helps the inspection reflect your [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":821,"featured_media":108259,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34279],"tags":[34669],"coauthors":[36435],"class_list":["post-108265","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-selling-a-home","tag-selling-prep"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.9) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Prepare for a Home Inspection as a Seller | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to prepare for a home inspection before you list your home, with simple quick fixes and tips to help the process go smoothly.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-prepare-for-a-home-inspection-seller\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Prepare for a Home Inspection Before You List Your Home\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to prepare for a home inspection before you list your home, with simple quick fixes and tips to help the process go smoothly.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-prepare-for-a-home-inspection-seller\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; 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