Simple fall prep can prevent inspection delays, give buyers peace of mind, and help you close without stress.
Selling your home can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to the home inspection. You’ve probably spent hours making your house show-ready, but have you considered one crucial step? Sellers should plan to leave the home during the inspection.
Leaving during the inspection reduces stress. It may feel unusual to leave your home while someone else looks it over, but it’s one of the best things you can do. The buyer pays for the inspection, and it’s their chance to take a closer look. When the seller is present, it often creates tension that can make both the buyer and inspector uncomfortable. By stepping away, you give buyers the space they need to ask questions, run tests, and get familiar with the property. A smoother inspection means fewer surprises and a higher chance of moving forward without delays.
Tree maintenance is on buyers’ minds this fall. Another topic coming up more often this season is tree care. Buyers are inquiring about ash trees, dead branches, and the proximity of large trees to the house. These questions have become more common than in past years. Sellers who take care of trees show buyers that they’re proactive about maintenance, which can create a stronger first impression. If your property has older trees or visible deadwood, trimming or professional care could be a simple step that adds confidence for potential buyers.
“A stress-free inspection gives buyers confidence, making it easier to reach the closing table.”
Inventory is beginning to rise. We’re also seeing more homes come on the market this fall. Even if metro-wide data doesn’t fully reflect it yet, locally, inventory is starting to creep up as we move into late September and October. The September rate cut, while not directly tied to mortgage rates, has improved overall confidence. Another shift we’ve noticed is that more of our calls are coming from prospective sellers rather than buyers, a change from earlier this year. For sellers, this means competition is increasing, so smart pricing and preparation are more important than ever.
What does this mean for you? If you’re preparing to sell this fall, focus on the things that matter most: make your home inspection-ready, take care of any visible tree issues, and work with a professional who can help you position your home competitively in a market with growing inventory. Small steps now can help you stand out and give buyers the confidence to move forward.
If you’d like guidance on preparing for an inspection or want to discuss your options in today’s market, call us at 952-212-3597 or email ChadandSara@edinarealty.com. We’d be happy to walk you through the process and help you sell your home.
