Selling Tips Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group March 19, 2025
Selling a house comes with a lot of moving pieces, and the last thing you want is a deal falling apart over unexpected repairs uncovered during the buyer’s inspection. That’s why it pays to anticipate potential issues before buyers ever step through the door. And one way to do that is with a pre-listing inspection.
A pre-listing inspection is essentially a professional home inspection you schedule before putting your house on the market. Just like the inspections your buyer will do after making an offer, this process identifies any issues with the condition of your house that could have an impact on the sale – like structural problems, faulty or outdated HVAC systems, or other essential repairs.
While it’s a great option if you’re someone who really doesn’t like surprises, Bankrate explains this may not make sense for all sellers:
“While it can be beneficial for a seller to do, a pre-listing inspection isn’t always necessary. For example, if your home is relatively new and you’ve been the only owner, you’re most likely already aware of any big issues that could impact a sale. But for an older home, a pre-listing inspection can be very insightful and help you get ahead of any potential problems.”
The key is deciding whether the benefits outweigh the costs for your situation. Sometimes a few hundred dollars now can get you information that’ll save you a lot of time and hassle later on.
Right now, buyers are more cautious about how much money they’re spending. And they want to be sure the home they’re buying is worth the expense. In a market like this, a pre-listing inspection can be your secret weapon to make sure your house shows well. Here are just a few ways it can help:
But before you think about reaching out to any inspectors to get something scheduled, be sure to talk to an agent. Your agent will be able to give you advice on whether a pre-inspection is worthwhile for your house and the local market. Because it may not be as important if sellers still have the majority of the negotiation power where you live.
If your agent does recommend moving forward and getting one done, here’s how they’ll support you throughout the process.
While they’re definitely not required, pre-listing inspections can be especially helpful in today’s market. By understanding your home’s condition ahead of time, you can take control of the process and make informed decisions about what to fix before you list and what to disclose.
If you choose to skip this step, you may be just as surprised as your buyer by what pops up in their inspection. And that could leave you scrambling. Would you rather fix issues now or risk trying to save the deal later?
Let’s connect so you can see if this is a step that makes sense in our market.
This blog post previously appeared on https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/en/2025/03/05/why-a-pre-listing-inspection-may-be-worth-it-in-todays-market?a=106260-312309902871c1f0d820820f58bf8fde. The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. and the Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group do not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. and the Laura Miller Edwards Realty Group will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
For Buyers
For many first-time buyers, the idea that you have to put 20% down can feel like a major roadblock. But that’s actually a common misconception. Here’s the truth.
Selling Tips
When you put your house on the market, you want to sell it quickly and for the best price possible.
For Buyers
Here are some top tips your agent will share with you that are helping buyers stand out (and win) in today’s market.
Economy
Retirement isn’t just a milestone. It's the beginning of something really special.
For Buyers
If you want to put yourself in the best position to buy, there’s one step you can’t afford to skip, and that’s getting pre-approved for a mortgage.
Home Buying
Homeowner’s insurance is a must-have to protect what’s probably your biggest investment – your home.
Agent Value
If selling your house is on your to-do list this year, the time to start prepping is now.
For Sellers
It pays to anticipate potential issues before buyers ever step through the door. And one way to do that is with a pre-listing inspection.
For Buyers
Right now, there are more newly built homes to choose from than there would normally be in the market.
Get assistance in determining current property value, crafting a competitive offer, writing and negotiating a contract, and much more. Contact us today.