Should You Pre-Inspect Your Home Before Selling?

By Frank Valente

Associate Broker at eXp realty of California. Active agent and broker since 2003 in the Sacramento Region. Retired from the Navy in 2002 after 24 years as a Commander. Former Surface Warfare Officer.

Are you thinking about selling your home but worried about hidden issues popping up at the worst time? The last thing you want is a deal falling through because of unexpected problems. That’s why I recommend getting a pre-inspection before putting your home on the market.

Why pre-inspections matter. When buyers start knocking, you’ll be confident that your home is in top shape. A pre-inspection is like a Carfax report for your house—it shows everything’s been well-maintained and no nasty surprises are lurking. This transparency sets your home apart and builds trust with potential buyers.

The last thing you need is for a buyer to uncover issues during their whole house inspection. They might demand expensive repairs or a price cut if they find problems like dry rot or a failing well. Worst case, they walk away entirely.

Are pre-inspections required? Some inspections might be mandatory depending on where you live and your loan type. For example, VA loans often require a “clear section one” from pest inspections—meaning no active infestations or untreated damage. Even if not needed initially, appraisers or underwriters might flag something and request further checks.

The risk of waiting. Letting the buyer handle inspections is a way to save time or money, but it can backfire. Discovering issues during escrow can delay the sale or even cause it to fall through. Plus, buyers might use these issues to negotiate a lower price.

Here are the critical inspections to consider:

• Whole-House inspection. Your starting point. An experienced inspector checks everything—from plumbing to the foundation. They’ll give you a comprehensive report and suggest any specialized inspections.
• Pest inspection. This is essential if you’re in California. Inspectors look for signs of infestations and issues like dry rot or leaks that invite pests. Catching these early can save you big headaches later.
• Roof inspection. Got an older home? A roof inspection might be smart. With drones, it’s easier and safer than ever, even for those tricky tile roofs.
• Septic and well inspections. If you’re in a rural area, don’t skip these. Professionals check your septic system and test your well’s water quality and productivity. You don’t want surprises here during escrow.
• HVAC and electrical inspections. Older homes might need an electrician to look over wiring and power panels. An HVAC check ensures your heating and cooling systems are running smoothly.

Not sure which inspections you need? Talk to a trusted real estate agent or local inspector. They’ll help you determine what’s most important based on your home’s age, location, and features. For instance, a newer home might not need a roof inspection, but checking the plumbing could still be wise.

Getting a pre-inspection is an investment in peace of mind. It shows buyers you’re a responsible seller and helps prevent deal-breaking surprises. Most importantly, it keeps you confident during negotiations. Ready to make your sale seamless? Contact me at +1(916) 257-0893 or frank@frankvalente.com to get started on pre-inspections. Let’s make your home sale smooth, stress-free, and successful.