A home inspection can make or break a sale. If issues are uncovered, buyers might ask for repairs, request a price cut—or walk away entirely.
The best way to avoid surprises is to get your home ready before the inspector shows up.
Use this simple checklist to prep your home, catch obvious issues early, and make a great impression on buyers.
✅ Before the Inspection
- Do a walkthrough – Look for visible issues inside and outside your home.
- Declutter – Clean and tidy every room and exterior area.
- Make access easy – Clear pathways to the attic, basement, furnace, and crawl space.
✅ Exterior
- Roof: No missing or damaged shingles
- Chimney: No cracks, cap is secure
- Gutters: Clean and attached properly
- Siding/Stucco: In good condition, no cracks or warping
- Windows/Doors: Open and close properly, no broken glass
- Yard: No standing water; lawn mowed, bushes trimmed
✅ Interior
General Areas
- Ceilings: No cracks or stains
- Floors: No sagging, warping, or buckling
- Walls: No leaning or major cracks
- Doors: Close and latch correctly
- Windows: Seal tightly, no drafts
- Under sinks: No leaks
Kitchen
- Appliances working
- Cabinets and drawers open smoothly
- Stove and range hood vent properly
- Plumbing under sink leak-free
- Floors clean and in good shape
Bathrooms
- Sinks, toilet, and tub/shower work
- Exhaust fan functions
- Caulking and grout in good shape
- No leaks or signs of water damage
Basement
- No moisture or wet spots
- Wood structures intact
- HVAC unit in working order
Attic
- Insulation and ventilation in good shape
- No mold or blocked vents
- Wiring looks safe and tidy
Living Areas
- Windows/screens, doors, stairs, and lighting all work
- No visible wall or ceiling damage
- Smoke/CO detectors installed and working
✅ Outside Spaces
Front Yard
- Driveway and walkway in good condition
- Outdoor lights work
- Lawn and landscaping well-maintained
- Garage door opens smoothly
Backyard
- Deck, patio, or pool in safe condition
- Fence and gates sturdy
- Lawn neat
- Shed/doors secure
Final Tip: Talk to Your Agent
Every market is different, and buyer expectations can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. A knowledgeable agent can help you focus on the fixes that matter most—and avoid wasting time or money on those that won’t move the needle.
If you have questions or want advice tailored to your specific situation, reach out to REwithRich—I’d be happy to help or point you in the right direction.
Download this checklist for FREE: https://rewithrich.com/rewithrich_homeinspectionchecklist/
