- Photo: Pre-listing inspection can contribute to a more efficient and transparent selling process.
- Abstract: North Shore and Sunshine Coast home inspector discusses value of pre-listing inspections for real estate agents.
How EKAN Performs a Pre-listing Home Inspection
A licensed EKAN home inspector performs a detailed inspection of the house. If it is owner or tenant occupied, we ask that the resident be present during the inspection, as we can ask probing questions about the performance of various house systems. We appreciate resident input as it can point to other issues that would otherwise not be readily identified during our visual inspection.
The inspection report is written in a balance approach that fully discloses safety, major and minor issues with the house; however, our expository style is factual rather than inflammatory.
Although the report is prepared for the seller or seller’s agent, we appreciate the fact that we will not have any control over its distribution. As such, it may be made available to prospective buyers at open houses and individual showings. The report is always done to a professional standard that reflects well on the seller and seller’s agent; that is, EKAN is a premium inspection firm that does not skip or gloss over major issues.
How Agents Benefit from EKAN Pre-Listing Inspections
Pre-listing inspections offer several benefits to real estate agents, enhancing their ability to effectively market and sell properties. Here are seven ways in which pre-listing inspections benefit real estate agents:
- Provide House Information for Estate Sale or Non-Resident Investor-Owner:
- In cases where information about the house is not readily available from a primary source, such as in estate sales or when dealing with non-resident investors, a pre-listing inspection can offer a comprehensive overview of the property. This information is crucial for marketing and negotiating, providing potential buyers with transparency and building trust.
- No Need for Renovations Prior to Listing Poor Condition:
- If the inspection reveals that the house is in poor condition, the agent can decide not to invest in any major renovations before listing. This saves time and money, and the detailed information from the inspection can still be used to market the property accurately, allowing potential buyers to make informed decisions.
- Strategic Renovation Planning for Maximum Return on Investment:
- By having detailed information about the property’s condition, real estate agents can strategically choose which renovations to undertake before listing. They can focus on improvements that will provide the best return on investment, increasing the property’s appeal and potentially leading to a higher selling price.
- Obtain Contractor Estimates and Discount Repair Costs:
- Pre-listing inspections enable agents to obtain accurate estimates from contractors for any necessary repairs. Armed with this information, agents can negotiate with contractors to lower repair costs or factor these costs into the listing price. This transparency helps in setting realistic expectations for potential buyers.
- Control Negotiations and Be Prepared for Buyer Inquiries:
- With detailed information from the inspection, real estate agents have a clear understanding of the property’s condition. This knowledge empowers them to control negotiations more effectively. They can anticipate buyer concerns, be prepared with answers in advance, and navigate negotiations confidently, leading to smoother transactions.
- Address Potential Deal Breakers Early On:
- Pre-listing inspections allow agents to identify and address potential deal-breakers before the property is officially on the market. This proactive approach can prevent surprises during the closing process and contribute to a faster and more successful sale.
- Enhance Marketing Materials and Disclosures:
- The findings from pre-listing inspections can be used to create compelling marketing materials. Agents can highlight the property’s strengths and address any issues upfront, making the marketing process more transparent. This honesty builds trust with potential buyers and reduces the likelihood of surprises later in the transaction.
In summary, pre-listing inspections provide real estate agents with valuable information, empower them in negotiations, and contribute to a more efficient and transparent selling process.