3 Ways to Make Point of Sale Inspections Easier

Point of sale (POS) inspections are visual inspections of the interior and exterior of a property that is conducted by a city inspector.

These home seller inspections may or may not be required, depending on your city’s ordinance. They differ from general home inspections in that house inspections are not a requirement to sell your home, whereas a point of sale inspection may be mandated by each city. Homeowner's inspection cost varies from city to city, as do the requirements, so it’s recommended to contact your city about home selling requirements. 

It is important to note that a point of sale inspection does not replace the need for home buyer inspections. If this home seller inspection shows that your home is not up to code, or there are glaring concerns, the issues should be addressed and corrected before the property transfers to the new buyer. The other option is that the new home buyer can assume the responsibility for the home repairs. The buyers would have to place money in an escrow account that they would not get back until the repairs are completed and the property passes a reinspection.

Here are three ways to make sure a point of sale inspection goes smoothly:

1. Make sure your house is in good condition.

A house inspector who can move through a property without finding many glaring issues will not have much cause for concern to look deeper or mark minor issues. If numerous items are identified, an inspector is going to spend more time ensuring a thorough homeowner's inspection is done and making sure every item needed is marked for repair. It is important to make any repairs that  you need since this can keep your real estate ROI from decreasing.

2. Learn what a home inspector is trying to find

You can accomplish this by speaking with neighbors who have had a home seller inspection, a local real estate agent, or building departments who are familiar with what a city inspector is looking for. They will guide you in where to spend your energy making any necessary home repairs. 

3. Meet the property inspector at your home

Schedule the inspection during a time when you are able to be present and meet with the property inspector. You will be able to walk around while the real estate inspector identifies any home repairs that might be needed and have clarity as to how to correct them. This will save time from making any unnecessary repairs or having to go back and correct them again after a reinspection.

Conclusion

It is important to remember that POS inspections are used as a compliance measure to ensure that there is a standard set in the community and that anyone getting ready to sell their home, within the same community, will need the same home inspection. By maintaining your property and making sure your house is in good condition you will be able to minimize any potential home repairs that a home inspector might find and you’ll be ready to list your house for sale!