You have reached a point in your life when you need to move to a bigger house to accommodate the needs of your growing Colorado family. How you prepare your home for sale will determine how quickly your home sells.

No matter how lovely your house is, majority of Colorado home buyers will walk back out of the door if they find some icky issues in your home.

Here are some of the biggest turnoffs for potential Denver home buyers.

Poor curb appeal

Curb appeal is the attractiveness of your home when viewed from across the street. It is important to improve curb appeal because most buyers would drive by the house before they decide to book your house for viewing.

Often, sellers are too busy beautifying the interior of the house that they end up forgetting about the exterior. If they find that the house looks messy and unkempt from the outside, they may assume that the house hasn’t been maintained and cared for. As a result, they may lose interest in viewing the house. 

Dirt and grime

Nothing will scare off a potential home buyer than a dirty, filthy house. As a seller, your goal is to help buyers envision themselves living in your home. It would be impossible to do that in a house with crusty kitchen counters, grimy floors, and dirt everywhere.

Before selling, you want to make sure that the house is in the best possible condition. As such, we highly recommend that you deep clean the house. Clean and scrub every part of the house. Make it sparkle.

Odors from pets or smoking

While you consider your pet a part of your family, some people don’t like dogs, especially pet odors. House odors from pets take top billing on the uh-oh list. A house that smells like cigarettes may also turn off potential buyers. Many of them will turn around and walk back out of your door once they notice the odor.

Since you lived in that house for years, you may be immune to the smell. While preparing your home for sale, we suggest that you invite a friend or a colleague over to your home to help you determine if your house smells. If it does, take the necessary steps to get rid of the odor. Perfume isn’t enough to cover up the odor.

Buying a house in Colorado is a big financial obligation. If you’re not careful, it can quickly turn into a financial nightmare. As such, it is best to have the Denver Colorado property professionally inspected prior to closing.

A Denver home inspection helps potential buyers determine the overall condition of the house and identify any major issues. This is designed to help potential buyers make a more informed decision and prevent them from being scammed.

What type of home inspection do you need to have when buying a house? Here are some of them.

General home inspection

A general home inspection will give you a good idea about the overall condition of the property. The house may look nice, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s in great shape. By hiring a professional inspector, you’ll be able to determine the issues that are present in the house, as well as some potential problems that you may have to deal with in the long run.

By knowing the actual condition of the property you’re interested in, you can make a more informed decision and decide whether or not it is a worthy investment.

Radon gas

Radon gas is a colorless, odorless gas. Long-term exposure to radon gas can potentially cause health problems. In some cases, it can even be fatal. Since it is invisible odorless, most people aren’t even aware about the presence of this toxic gas in their home. The only way to find out is through testing.

Our house is our safe haven. It is where we feel safe and relaxed. When looking for your dream home, you should look beyond the physical appearance and consider the safety of your family. This is especially important if you have young kids. Don’t skip this step.

Mold testing

Mold is also a potential health threat. Young kids and older adults are more susceptible to the negative health effects of mold. It can cause allergy symptoms, trigger asthma attacks, and even aggravate existing health conditions. If left unaddressed, mold problems may also cause structural problems. It literally eats at materials like floorboards, ceiling tiles, drywall, and wall paper.

Mold can start growing and multiply very easily. This is why it’s important to address the issue as early as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely it is spread in different parts of the house.

Molds are difficult to get rid of, and remediation is costly. In fact, the average cost of mold remediation is $2,000 to $6,000. Make sure that you do this type of inspection before signing on the dotted line. The last thing you want is to find out about the mold problems after moving in to your new house.

If you are buying a home in Denver Colorado or surrounding areas and need a home inspection, call Steel- Rhino. We can give you a solid, honest inspection of the home you are considering to purchase. 

You’ve spent most of your weekends looking at houses. You have finally found the house of your dreams. Unfortunately, something came up in the midst of the homebuying process. Now, you’re wondering whether or not you should push through with the transaction.

Here are 3 signs it’s time to walk away from a home purchase.

Not everyone is on board

If you’re buying a house with your spouse or partner, then both parties should be on the same page. Before you start looking at houses, we suggest that you make a list of the features you want and need in a house.

Even if you think you have found the perfect house, if your partner doesn’t think it’s the one, then you shouldn’t push through with the transaction. Since both of your names are on the mortgage, both parties should walk away happy.

Even if you have already sent the contract to the seller’s agent, you are free to withdraw the offer. Let the agent know that you changed your mind. This is acceptable, provided that the seller hasn’t signed yet.

There are serious inspection issues

If the home inspection report comes back with some major issues, you may want to think twice about buying the house. Major issues such as structural damage, water damage, roof problems or faulty electrical systems are not only costly to fix; they can also pose a threat to the health and safety of your family.

If you find any of these issues on the home inspection report, it may be time to hit the brakes on your home purchase.

You can’t afford it

Some people fall in love with a house because of its appealing features or because it has character. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a house, and then find out later on that you can’t afford it.

Before you start house hunting, sit down with your partner and crunch some numbers. It is also a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Not only will it give you a good idea about how much you can afford, it can also prevent disappointment down the road.

If you can’t afford the house, it is best to back out of the real estate deal. There is no point in buying the most attractive house in the neighborhood if you’ll end up living like a peasant in the coming years.

Most sellers will be upfront about the issues present in the house. Other sellers, however, will try to hide some issues in the hopes of selling their house fast.

If you are planning to buy a house, beware. The house may have some issues the seller don’t want you find out.

Here are some of the most common problems home sellers try to hide.

Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common problems in the house. It can be from plumbing fixtures, pipes or roof leak. Sellers will try every quick fix possible to temporarily plug that drip.

A leak may seem like a minor problem, but if not addressed immediately, this can lead to bigger, more complicated problems. Water damage, mold growth, and structural problems are just some of them. These issues are not only costly to address, they can also pose a threat to your family’s health and safety.

Water damage

Signs of water damage can be hard to miss. It often manifests as a stain or blotch on the walls and ceiling. Peeling paint is also a common sign of water damage.

Most sellers would paint the walls before putting their home on the market. Not only will it help freshen up the look of the house, it also helps conceal the stains on the walls and ceiling.

HVAC systems

HVAC systems usually last for a very long time. In fact, the average lifespan of an HVAC equipment is between 15 to 20 years. But once it reaches the 10-year mark, it tends to break down and becomes costly to operate. Replacing older units with newer, energy-efficient models will help you save money and stress down the road.

It is easy to tell whether the HVAC unit is ancient or not, but some sellers try to hide the age of their HVAC system with 3 words – I don’t know. When in doubt, ask your home inspector about it. They can find out that information very quickly.

A haunted past

According to the National Association of Realtors, violent crimes, murder or suicide that took place in the house doesn’t have to be disclosed during the selling process. Don’t expect the seller to offer that information to you during the home selling process.

If you’re squeamish about it, sites like DiedinHouse.com can clue you in on a property’s unsavory past.

Getting the house inspected is one of the most important things you need to do when buying a house. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that the property you are interested in is worth investing on. Plus, it gives you an option to opt out if the problems are too big or unsettling.

There is no denying the importance of home inspection in the home buying process. The problem is that, there are lots of myths and misconceptions being circulated. As a result, most people find it difficult to separate the facts from the myths.

Here are some of the most common home inspection myths you need to stop believing.

Newly constructed homes don’t need to be inspected

It’s a no-brainer to have an old house inspected before closing. But should you hire a home inspector for a new home? The answer is yes.

No house is perfect. Even new homes can have problems too. You need to remember that even the most experienced home builders commit mistakes, which often leads to some issues. A home inspection provides a great opportunity to address constructions errors before they turn into major problems.

It doesn’t matter which inspector you hire

Most states do not require home inspectors to be licensed. This makes it difficult to separate the good ones from the inexperienced ones.

There are lots of home inspectors out there, but you can’t just hire the first one you run into. Considering how much money you’ll be spending on your future home, you want to make sure that you hire the best one. In order to make the most out of the home inspection, be sure to hire someone who has the knowledge, skills, and experience. If possible, hire someone who has been in the business for several years.

A home inspector will tell whether or not to buy the house

A home inspector will inspect every aspect of the house. They will identify the issues that are present in the house. Some may even give you an estimate or the expected costs of repairs. That’s it.

As a buyer, it is your responsibility to decide whether or not to push through with the home sale. The home inspector will not make the decision for you. Attend the home inspection, ask questions, and carefully read through the home inspection report to help you make an informed decision.

So, you have found the house of your dreams. The seller has accepted your offer. You’re eager to shop for new furnitures and move into your new house. Not so fast. Before you sign on the dotted line, you want to make sure that the house meets your expectations. The house may look great, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s in pristine condition.

A house can cost a fortune. As such, most buyers are looking for ways to save money. Often, they would skip the home inspection in an attempt to cut cost. When making the biggest purchases of your life, you want to make sure that the property you’re eyeing on is worth investing on. Don’t be tempted to waive the home inspection.

Here are 4 reasons why you shouldn’t skip a home inspection.

Reveal the big picture

A home inspection is one of the most important steps you need to take when buying a house. A professional inspector will help you determine the condition of the house and minor and major issues, as well as potential problems you may have to face later on.

You need to know what you’re getting into before making a final decision. The home inspection will give you more information about the property you’re interested in and help you make a more informed buying decision.

Negotiating tool

Fixing and repairing issues in the house is not only costly, it can also be stressful. If the home inspection report comes back with a list of major issues, you can either ask the seller to address these issues before closing or negotiate a lower price.

Peace of mind

A house is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make. Unlike clothes, shoes, and bags, you can’t ask for a refund if you decide later on that you’re not happy with your purchase. Once you have closed on the property, there is no turning back.

Before you sign on the dotted line, you want to make sure that the house you’re interested in is in great shape. The only way to find out is through a home inspection. Knowing the actual condition of the property, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your future home is in good condition, and that it’s a good investment. It is worth the extra cost when you’re making the biggest purchases of your life.

It provides an out

Fixing and addressing issues in the house can be costly and time consuming. This is especially true when you’re dealing with some major issues such as roof damage, structural damage, mold infestation, and water damage. By learning about the issues present in the house, you can decide whether to push through with the transaction or just back out of the sale.

Buying a house has always been a part of the American dream. Studies suggest that 80% of millennials desire to become homeowners someday. They are moving out of their parent’s basements and into buying homes. In fact, millennials hold the largest share of homebuyers at 36%.

A house is one of the biggest purchases one will ever make in this lifetime. Considering the amount of money to be spent in buying a house, buyers are very cautious in purchasing a property. They don’t just want a beautiful house. They want a property that is in move-in condition. They are in search of a property that doesn’t require lots of time, money, and effort to repair. Homebuyers want to make sure that the hose they are investing on is in good condition. This is where home inspection steps in.

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure of the property. Based on the visual inspection of accessible features, it determines the present condition of the house, as well as its major systems. The procedure is usually done by a professional home inspector – someone who has undergone extensive trainings and certifications.

Home inspection is usually done during a real estate transaction. Often, it is done at the request of the buyer. The buyers are usually the ones who hire a home inspector. Not only does it help them identify problems that are present in the house, it also gives them the assurance that the house they are interested in is worth investing on. Learning the actual condition of the property can help buyers save a lot of time and money in the long run. Not only is it beneficial for buyers, it can also work to your advantage when selling your house.

Anyone who is selling their house will go through a home inspection. You don’t need a real estate transaction to have a home inspection. If you are eager to know the actual condition of your house, you can hire a home inspector and have the house inspected any time.

Do home inspections really affect property value?

If you’re wondering whether or not a home inspection affects the value of the property, then the answer is yes. This is especially true when you’re selling.

You may not have plans of selling your house right now, but time will come when you’ll be ready to put it on the market. Read on to find out how home inspection can affect the value of your home.

You can make repairs before selling

First impressions matter when selling a house. If you want to sell your house fast and for top dollar, you need to make sure that your house is at its best. A charming and attractive house is definitely an advantage, but you also need to make sure that is in great shape as well.

If you are considering selling your home in the near future, we highly recommend that you have your house inspected before putting it on the market. This will help you identify potential and existing problems in your home.

Structural issues, plumbing problems, electrical problems, roof damage, and water damage are just some of the most common issues found during a home inspection. These issues are costly to repair and may negatively affect the value of your property. By learning about the issues present in your home, you are given the opportunity to fix them before putting your house on the market.

As mentioned earlier, most buyers are in search of properties that are in move-in ready condition. They don’t want to be bothered with repairs. By making the necessary repairs before selling, you are making your house more attractive to potential buyers.

Most sellers don’t have enough time or money to tackle all the issues listed on the home inspection report. That’s fine. You don’t have to fix everything. Just try to tackle as much issues as you can. Repair the roof, replace broken window glass, repair leaky faucets, fix broken appliances and HVAC systems, and patch holes and cracks in the walls and ceilings. By repairing certain issues and making improvements before listing your home, potential buyers will think that your home is well loved and maintained. As a result, you’ll be able to sell your house quickly and for top dollar. Plus, you’ll put more money in your pocket.

Make the buying process quicker and smoother

A home inspection involves a visual inspection of the house’s structure, as well as its major systems and appliances. By checking every aspect of the house, the inspector may be able to uncover issues you may not be aware of. You will also be provided a copy of the home inspection report within 1 to 3 days.

As mentioned above, it is often the buyer who hires a home inspector. Once it’s done, they have 3 options – they would ask the buyer to tackle repairs, negotiate for a lower price or back out of the transaction.

A home inspection is a vital part of a real estate transaction. Buyers are likely to have it done before they agree to buy the house. By performing a pre-selling inspection, there would be no surprises during the selling process. You are fully aware of the issues present in the house. You can either tackle these issues or just leave them as is. If you don’t have enough money to handle repairs, you can just disclose the issues to potential buyers and reduce the price of your home to accurately reflect its condition. They will uncover the truth eventually, so there is no point in concealing these issues.

By disclosing the issues in advance, it will help combat any suspicions they may have and reduce a buyer’s need for a price concession. It will also reduce the negotiation process since there won’t be much left for the buyers to negotiate on. With all the cards on the table, it will eliminate last-minute surprises and strengthen your home’s selling power.

Even if a buyer request to do their own home inspection, they are less likely to back out of the sale due to unsatisfactory conditions.

Get a pre-listing home inspection

Selling their house fast and for top dollar is a dream most home sellers share. This is why many of them spend time and money in beautifying their house. Often, sellers tend to focus on cleaning, decluttering, staging their home. We understand that you want your home to look its best. But if you want to get the most money out of your property, you need to look at the house with a buyer’s eyes.  

Having a pre-listing inspection will help you identify the issues you may have overlooked over the years. It will also give you a good idea about the current condition of your house. Equipped with this information, you’ll have the chance to take care of certain things before listing your home for sale. This will help increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Having a pre-listing inspection done, you can plan better and possibly a better price on your home. If you’re considering selling your home, please feel free to call us to schedule a pre-listing home inspection.

Selling a house is no easy task. There are lots of things that needs to be done to prepare your home for selling. From cleaning and decluttering to staging to advertising and showing, the entire process can be exhausting and stress-inducing.

Just because you have received an offer on your house, it’s not a guarantee that the sale will push through. You still need to pass the home inspection. A home inspection gives buyers a clear picture about the current condition of the property. Depending on what comes up on the inspection report, the buyer can negotiate a lower price, ask you to do some repairs or just walk out of the transaction.

If you want to sell your home fast and for top dollar, make sure that you prepare for the home inspection. Listed below are some dos and don’ts you should consider before the home inspector arrives. With these tips, you are sure to convince homebuyers to scurry for their checkbooks.

DOs

Get a pre-listing inspection

Selling the house quickly and for top dollar is a dream most sellers share. To do that, you want to make sure that you house is in tiptop shape before putting it on the market. One of the best ways to prepare your home for selling is by getting a pre-listing inspection.

A pre-listing inspection gives you a clear picture about the current condition of your home. It can help you avoid any surprises along the way and can streamline the process. Most importantly, it gives you the opportunity to address some issues early on, so you have a better chance of having a smoother, quicker selling process.

In some states, there are no licensing requirements for home inspectors. This makes it difficult to separate the goods ones from the inexperienced ones. To ensure that you hire a qualified home inspector, ask for credentials and certifications. You may also want to review a sample home inspection report. You want to make sure that the information presented is in a clear and thorough format. It is also best to do your research. Read reviews from past clients and check the company’s references. Sometimes, you need to do a little inspecting on your own to find the best inspector.

Clean your house

Having prospective buyers and home inspectors in your house can be a daunting thought. They’ll be checking every nook and cranny and look for flaws or issues in your home. That said, you want to make sure that your house is clean, organized, and presentable.

Nothing will turn off a buyer more than a messy, cluttered house. Home inspectors and potential buyers may also assume that your house wasn’t cared for.

Clean your home like a pro and pay particular attention to the bathrooms and kitchen. Don’t forget to look inside your drawers, cupboards, and cabinets. While you’re at it, get rid of things you no longer need or use. Remember, a stylish home is one that is clean, decluttered, and easy to move around in.

Be on time

Most inspectors come early. Others arrive 15 minutes ahead of schedule. So, if the inspection is scheduled at 9:00 am, make sure that you are dressed and ready to go by 8:45 am.

Many of them would start inspecting the exterior of the house as soon as they arrive. So, make sure that you wake up and prepare early. The last thing you want is for the home inspector to be walking around the house while you’re dressing up. Be on time because the home inspector will be.

Check your home’s exterior

As mentioned above, the exterior is the first thing home inspectors will check, so you want to make sure it’s in great shape. If your home’s exterior is cluttered, now is the best time to take care of it.

Trim your bushes, mow the lawn, and clear the sidewalk. If you are selling in winter, then you need to shovel and salt the walkways. Also, consider repainting the faded window and front door to make your home more attractive.

Turn on all utilities

A home inspector will not only examine the different areas of the house, he will also check the air conditioner, furnace, dishwasher, and the water heater. Without utilities, he won’t be able to check these appliances. The inspection will need to be rescheduled and the closing will be delayed. We highly recommend that you leave the utilities connected even after you have moved out of the house.

Have paperwork ready

The inspector may want to know when you last had your HVAC system serviced or had the chimney cleaned. Gather all the necessary paper and documents of all repairs that you have done on your home.  It is also a good idea to include receipts of the appliances and fixtures, so it would be easier to prove their age.

Provide easy access to different areas of your home

Make sure that you provide access to different areas of your home. Otherwise, they won’t be able to do the job thoroughly. Provide unobstructed access to the basement, crawlspace, attic, and other areas. Unlock doors and gates to the garage, shed or any other rooms in the house.

Your HVAC system and hot water tank will also be inspected. Check them before the scheduled date of inspection and make sure that they are properly functioning.  A home inspector will need at least 3 to 4 feet of space in order to inspect it thoroughly. Provide workspace around hot water tank and HVAC system by removing furnitures, boxes or bookcases that may be blocking access to these areas.

DON’Ts

Hover around

More often than not, buyers tag along during the home inspection. After all, this is the perfect opportunity to learn as much as they can about the house they are interested in. They may feel uncomfortable to ask questions or point out some issues if you’re inside the house.

The average home inspection takes about 2 to 3 hours. Sometimes, it may take longer. Make sure that you have something planned for the afternoon. Don’t forget to take your pets with you. Also, make sure all pet accessories and toys are tucked away out of sight. You may be a dog person, but you should also consider that not everyone likes them. You shouldn’t take your chances by leaving your precious pets around strangers.

Leave obvious issues unfixed

A house is one of the biggest purchases one would make in this lifetime. Considering the amount of money that will be put towards the house, homebuyers want to make sure that house is in tiptop shape. The last thing you want is for them to assume that the house hasn’t been cared for or maintained. Remember that at this stage, they are deciding whether or not your house is worth investing on.

Fix obvious problems before having the house inspected. Any issue you expect to show up on the home inspection report should be dealt with by now. There is no point in masking certain issues as home inspectors will likely uncover them.

Forget about safety and security

Our home is our safe haven. It is where we relax and unwind after a long, stressful day at work. Aspiring homeowners aren’t just looking for a lovely house, they are also looking after their family’s safety and security. With that, we highly recommend that you check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors regularly. Both devices are life-saving tools, and you want to make sure that they operating properly.

It’s not uncommon for buyers to feel excited and overwhelmed when house hunting. Often, they fall in love with a certain Denver property and will tend to ignore some of the issues that are present in the house. This is where a Denver home inspection comes in.

A home inspection will give you a clear picture of the overall condition of the house. This way, you can make a more informed decision and have peace of mind knowing that the property you’re interested in is good shape.

Here are 4 common problems found during home inspection.

Foundation issues

Many Denver houses sustain foundation damage as a result of poor soil conditions, inferior ground foundation, improper damage, and other causes. No matter what has caused the problem, foundation issues are not something that should be taken lightly. The cost of repairing the damage can cost a fortune. The foundation may also move and shift over time, which is extremely dangerous.

Roof damage

The roof is your first line of defense against rain, wind, sun, and snow. Despite its importance, most Denver homeowners don’t give their roof much thought until something goes wrong.

Although roofs can last for 20 to 30 years, it is important to check on your roof from time to time, especially after a storm. Look out for missing or cracked shingles and fix the problem in the soonest possible time. A Colorado roof replacement is expensive, so keep an eye out when you have the house inspected.

Faulty wiring

Electrical issues are one of the most common problems found during a home inspection. The problem ranges from circuit overload to a circuit breaker tripping frequently to frequent electrical surges. These are serious issues that are frequently linked with house fires.

Plumbing problems

Leaks are the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. Often, there will be leaks under the sink or under the toilets. Most homeowners tend to ignore this problem, thinking it is just a minor issue. But if left unaddressed, this may lead to a bigger, more complicated problem that will require costly repairs.

A simple leak, for instance, may lead to water damage and a mold problem. These issues will not only cause structural damage, it can also pose a threat to the health of the homes inhabitants.

Most buyers have a house inspected before they buy it. One of the biggest fears of sellers is for buyers to find out about some issues they aren’t aware of. This is why it is important to have the property inspected before putting it on the market.  

Getting a pre-listing inspection offers some benefits to sellers. It will help you determine what condition your house is in and avoid any unexpected surprises. This will ensure that the selling process goes smoothly and gets you the most money for your home.

Hire a good inspector

There are lots of inspectors out there. Since home inspectors in some states are not required to be licensed, it can be difficult to identify the good ones from the bad ones. Anyone can easily pose as a home inspector, especially in states where regulations are not stringent.

If you have family or friends who recently bought or sold a house, feel free to ask for recommendations. Your real estate agent may also know a good inspector. But before you hire one, make sure that you do some research to protect yourself from hiring an unqualified home inspector. Go online and read reviews from past clients. It is also a good idea to interview the inspector, ask a few questions and see a sample of a home inspection report.

Prepare the house for inspection

The primary purpose of a home inspection is to examine the condition of the house. In order to do their job properly, inspectors will need access to different parts of your home. They need access to the attic, basement, garage, crawlspace, and other areas. Get rid of clutter and remove anything that blocks access. Prepare each area for inspection and unlock all doors before the inspector arrives.

Attend the home inspection

Attending the home inspection isn’t mandatory. But whenever possible, we strongly recommend that you be present during the inspection.

By attending the inspection, you’ll be able to identify the issues you have never noticed and determine which ones need immediate repair. This way, you can make certain repairs prior to selling.

Read the report

A home inspection report is basically a huge list of everything that is wrong with your house. Make sure that you read the report carefully and thoroughly to help you understand the condition of your home. If you want to sell your home quickly and for top dollar, you need to pay attention on major issues as well as those that can pose a threat on the health of potential homeowners. You want to make sure that your house is in pristine condition before putting it on the market.