A question I often hear from sellers once they have a contract on their home is: “What should I do to prepare for the buyer’s home inspection?” To help answer this, I share what I call the CAT acronym. It’s a straightforward and easy-to-remember guide that covers the essential steps to ensure the inspection goes smoothly. 

While some sellers may have already addressed parts of it, reviewing these points can be very helpful. So, what does CAT stand for?

C is for clean and declutter. After getting a contract on your home, you’ve likely already done a thorough cleaning. Still, I always recommend paying a little extra attention to specific areas the home inspector will definitely check. For example, have you changed the filter in your HVAC system? If not, now’s a great time to replace it with a fresh and clean one. It’s a small step, but it can make a noticeable difference.

The CAT is a straightforward and easy-to-remember guide that covers the essential steps to ensure inspections go smoothly.

A is for access. The inspector needs to check several important areas, so it’s essential to provide easy access. Make sure the electrical panel is easily reachable and can be opened without any obstacles. If your home has an attic, ensure the door or hatch opens smoothly. Since they will likely remove the electrical panel cover to inspect the inside, be sure not to block their access.

T is for test. You’ll want to check that your sinks are draining properly. A simple way to do this is to plug the drain, fill the sink with water, then release it and observe how quickly it drains. If the water drains slowly, a gentle DIY solution like pouring vinegar and baking soda down the drain can help clear it. Also, make sure all your windows open and close smoothly, as inspectors will test them too. Windows that aren’t opened often can become stiff or stuck, so it’s a good idea to check them beforehand.

Bonus: Don’t forget the exterior. A little outside maintenance goes a long way. Trim any plants or bushes that are close to your house. Some inspectors will note if plants are too close, so keeping everything neat and tidy helps avoid issues.

I hope these tips make your home inspection a smooth experience. If you have any questions, feel free to call or text me at 703-216-4272 or email me at terrirobinson@remax.net.  I’m always happy to help.