If you’re looking for practical advice on selling your home, follow the Real Estate Real Easy blog. Every week we tackle a new subject. This week we’re focusing on building and pest inspections.
As a seller why would you get a building and pest inspection?
Many prospective buyers will engage a professional to inspect your property prior to making a firm commitment to purchase your home. In fact, most offer to purchase contracts are subject to a satisfactory building and pest inspection. And that’s precisely why you should consider getting your property inspection in advance of the buyer’s.
A thorough building and pest inspection will let you know the state of your property. Do you have an issue with damp or rotting wood or something else that can be easily fixed? A property inspection will point to any issues so that you can remedy any issues them before they impact the sale of your home or force you to lower your price.
What do building and pest inspections include?
The home inspection goes well beyond window dressing. It examines your home’s important structural, functional and safety features. A qualified property inspector will give your house a thorough examination, checking the heating and cooling equipment, plumbing and electrical systems, roof, attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundations and all visible structures of your property.
The inspector will point out the need for any major repairs, identify areas that may need attention in the near future, and explain what maintenance will be necessary to keep your house in good shape. You should expect a written report that identifies all findings, including fire and safety concerns.
You can use the report’s findings to target essential pre-sale repairs. Speak to your real estate agent for advice on which repairs are vital to the sale of your home.
Under Queensland law, you have an obligation to disclose any issues regarding the state of your home to potential buyers. If you do not fix items that are mentioned in the written property inspection report, the buyer must be made aware.
Building and pest inspection cost
Building and pest inspections are relatively inexpensive. You should expect to pay a few hundred dollars. This is a small price to pay when you consider it could mean the difference between making a sale and scaring off potential buyers.
Your Real Estate Real Easy agent can provide you with a list of reputable, qualified building and pest inspectors in your area. Just ask us when we list your property.
Appraisals determine home value
An appraisal is a report containing an estimate of the price that your property should sell for. The appraisal should not be confused with the home inspection (which deals with your property’s condition) or the market analysis (which focuses on price trends in a given real estate market).
Some sellers will request an appraisal to help them set an asking price for their home. Our sales consultants have extensive local residential real estate experience and will help you determine the ideal asking price for your property.
For more information on selling your home contact Alex or Jason today or download our free Property Sellers Guide.
