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Pre-Listing Home Inspections
Sellers Inspection - Home Owner Inspection
A pre-listing inspection is a home inspection completed for the property owner's benefit, usually before the property is listed. (They are commonly referred to as Sellers or Home Owners Inspections.) This gives the seller valuable information about their property as they prepare it for sale. However, a homeowner can choose to have a home inspection done at any time for their peace of mind.
With a Pre-Listing Inspection, the biggest benefits a seller can potentially have is a stronger degree of control over some aspects of the negotiations, repairs that may be needed or considered, and potential costs.
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By knowing about needed repairs a seller can make an informed decision about what repairs they are and will be able to make. They can then set a timeline for those repairs to be completed that works for them and not be rushed to get everything done before the closing date. Having time aids the seller in being able to research and select the right service professional, which can be a huge cost saver. This in turn can assist the seller during negotiations as they know what repairs have already been done, what repairs they are willing to negotiate on, and which ones they will not do. Having this knowledge upfront prevents surprises or hang-ups that might occur when the buyer's inspection takes place. Keep in mind the buyer may still exercise their right to an inspection regardless of the pre-listing inspection.
What is the difference between a Pre-Listing and a Home Inspection?
Honestly, there is not much of a difference. The inspector is still going through the same processes and standard for a standard residential inspection. To review what a residential home inspection is click here.
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The difference is for who it is being conducted for. White Glove works for the property owner. Along with the reason already discussed, is the owner has a lot of control in making sure that the home is ready for the inspection. Often there can be items that are blocking access hatches, major mechanicals, etc. As the owner, you can make sure all the areas that need to be inspected can be inspected by preparing the property for the inspection.
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It should be noted that all inspectors, based on their knowledge and expertise should find all of the same major concerns, but there will most likely be small differences in opinions and concerns.
You had a Pre-Listing Inspection, now what?
The report now becomes a powerful tool for the property owner. Once you have the report from the inspector you can start on the repairs, budgets, etc. From here you can choose where you are going to focus.
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For example the inspector marked the electrical panel as unsatisfactory and unsafe. You can now hire an electrician, get as may estimates as you want, and select the electrician you would like to hire that fits into your budget and timeline. This is far preferred over being rushed to find a fast solution during a 30 day closing window.
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Often if you are choosing to do repairs you can compile all of the repairs, permits, invoices, etc. for any work you have chosen to do. Some home owners will include all of that as a part of the disclosure or even having the report and all receipts in a binder that any potential home buyer and agent can review.
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So owners also make a decision that this is a known issue, we will disclose it, and we will not negotiate on that repair or replacement. You are effectively stopping the back and forth of negotiations because you are clear upfront about where you are willing to negotiate. Some owners even choose to simply list the house as is and disclose all the findings.​
The information shared here is relevant to White Glove Building Inspections, Inc., the real estate, and home inspection market in Chicago and the greater Chicagoland area. Be sure to consult with your real estate agent and attorney for additional information and what will work best for your upcoming real estate purchase.
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The scope of commercial inspections is different from residential inspections. For more details on commercial scope reach out directly. We will be happy to provide you with a no obligation proposal for your unique commercial inspection needs.