Preparing For The Home Inspection - Vinton Virginia Real Estate Guide

Most home sellers spend a lot of time preparing their homes for the buyer's eyes, but spend no time preparing for one of the most important steps of the home selling process...The Home Inspection. Below is a list of things that can be done with little expense:

Clean out gutters and remove any debris from the roof.
Divert all water away from the house. The grade should slope away from the structure.
Clean out basement drains which are usually located in front of the basement door.
Remove grade or mulch contact with siding. Six or more inches of clearance is preferred.
Trim trees and shrubs away from the foundation, roof, siding and chimney.
Paint all weathered exterior wood and caulk around the trim, chimney, windows and doors.
Seal asphalt driveways, if cracking.
Seal or point up masonry chimney caps. Install metal flue cap.
Clean or replace HVAC filter. Clean dirty air returns.
Test all smoke detectors to make sure they are in working order.
Update attic ventilation if none is present.
Have the chimney, fireplace or wood stove cleaned and provide the buyer with a copy of the cleaning record.
Ensure that all windows and doors are in proper operating condition, including repairing or replacing cracked windowpanes.
Ensure that all plumbing fixtures (toilet, tub, shower, and sinks) are in proper working conditions. Check for and fix any leaks. Caulk around fixtures if necessary.
Install GFCI receptacles near all water sources. Test all present GFCI receptacles for proper operation.
Check sump pump to make sure it is working properly.
Replace all burned out light bulbs.
Remove rotting wood and/or firewood from contact with the house.
Install proper vapor barrier in crawl spaces.
Make sure there is no water standing under decks and in crawl spaces. Moisture levels should remain under 18% to deter rot and mildew.
Check to make sure bath vents are properly vented and in working condition.
Remove paint, solvents, gas, and similar materials from crawl space, basement, attic, porch, and garage.
Install window wells on all windows that are below grade.
Have clear access to attic, crawl space, and basements.
Make sure that all faucets drips are repaired.
Make sure that tubs and sinks drain properly.
Make sure that switch plates and receptacles covers are in place.

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