Excitement runs high when you have an accepted offer on your Metro DC home, but what comes next could bring you down if not properly prepared for— the home inspection. The inspection is a contingency often written into most offers, meaning the buyer could walk away if the results are less than ideal.
Below are just a few of the items that inspectors will be looking for during their time at your Washington DC, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, or Northern Virginia property:
- Structure: Integrity of your foundation, state of windows, doors and frames
- Grounds: Faulty grading, dilapidated pathways and walks, trees, and any standing water
- Roof: Defects in shingles, flashing, fascia, gutters, chimney and skylights
- Interiors: Water damage, insulation, heating vents
- Kitchen: Venting, sink leaks
- Bathroom: Toilets flush, showers spray, sinks work
If you’re worried about the home inspection, there are also several ways you can prepare to reassure both yourself and other DC Metro buyers!
Clean and clean again
Inspectors will appreciate a clean home in Metro DC, so take care of every nook and cranny! Make sure all areas that the inspector needs to access are free of obstacles like toys, furniture and decor— including electrical panels and doors to the basement and attic.
Unlock all doors
You will want the inspector to have complete access to your home, so be sure all gates, doors and even windows are unlocked to let them test with ease. Or if your real estate agent will be accompanying the inspector, you can simply unlock those that do not have a lockbox.
Keep a maintenance log
If you’ve done any work to your Washington DC, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, or surrounding Northern Virginia home, keep an orderly log of them in addition to receipts and contracts from any outside laborers. You will want to be able to back up any repairs that have been completed for buyer peace of mind.
Spring is an exciting time for homeowners in the DC area! Give The Estridge Group a call for more information about how you can take advantage of the current market!
