Home Inspection Checklist Every Seller Should Know Before Selling

Prepare ahead and protect your bottom line.

One of the most critical steps in selling your home is the home inspection. Issues discovered during this process can do more than just delay the deal—they can give buyers leverage to lower the price, request repairs, or even back out of the contract altogether.

But here’s the good news: with the right preparation, you can avoid most of these pitfalls.

Today, we’re sharing a home inspection checklist for sellers to tackle before listing your home.

1. Start with a DIY Inspection

Before bringing in a professional, do a thorough walk-through of your home, inside and out.Check for things like:

• Areas where water might pool after rain

• Water stains or discoloration on the ceiling

• Doors and windows that don’t close properly

Spotting small issues early gives you a chance to fix them before they become deal-breakers.

2. Exterior Matters: First Impressions Count

• Check for missing or damaged roof shingles

• Inspect chimney bricks and cap

• Clean out gutters and check for damage

• Look for cracks in exterior walls or siding

• Make sure doors and windows open and close smoothly

• Fix any drainage issues

• Mow the lawn, pull weeds, trim bushes

Curb appeal isn’t just about looks—it tells buyers your home is well cared for.

3. Interior Check: What You Can’t See Can Hurt the Deal

These are areas home inspectors focus on:

• Ceiling stains or sagging (possible leaks)

• Uneven, warped, or slanted floors

• Wall cracks or shifting

• Loose or sticky doors

• Window insulation problems

• Leaks under sinks or near faucets

4. Kitchen & Basement: Must-Check Areas

The kitchen is a dealmaker—or dealbreaker.Fix things like:

• Old appliances

• Broken handles

• Peeling caulk

• Make sure range hoods vent properly

The basement directly relates to structural integrity.Check for:

• Water intrusion or dampness

• Mold

• Warped wood structures

Left unaddressed, these issues can seriously impact your sale.

5. Talk to a Local Real Estate Expert

What buyers care about varies by area.For example, in some parts of Chicago, a full bathroom on the main floor is a must-have, while in others, it’s not expected.

Talking to a local real estate expert helps you prioritize what’s truly worth fixing—saving you time and money.

Quick Home Inspection Checklist Summary

Kitchen: Appliances, faucet leaks, flooringBathroom: Drainage, mold, fan functionalityBasement: Plumbing, utility room, moisture signsLiving/Family Room: Lighting, outlets, windows, heatingExterior: Roof, gutters, deck, fence, lawn

Don’t Wait—Now Is the Time to Prepare

Since early 2024, the real estate market in Chicago and Illinois has heated up with more listings and more buyer activity in the spring season.

A home inspection isn’t just a formality—it’s a golden opportunity to maximize your selling price.

So ask yourself:“Is my home ready to pass an inspection today?”

Start the conversation with a local expert and get ahead of the game.

In real estate, the winners are always the prepared sellers.