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By Kandie Frederick

Growing up on the central coast, Kandie is a third generation family in the North County and a second generation family in real estate. Joining Country Real Estate in 2000, and graduating from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, she brings a background of Agricultural Business to combine with her knowledge of the local real estate market. Working with her family and their decades of local real estate development, she is deeply connected to the roots of our community and its growth.

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You’ve accepted an offer on your home. Congratulations. Now comes the moment that makes many sellers uneasy: the home inspection. Will the inspector find something major? Could it derail the deal?

Here’s the truth: home inspections are not about passing or failing, and they rarely derail a deal when sellers are prepared. They are simply a source of information for buyers and, when handled correctly, can help support your price and keep the transaction together.

When sellers know what inspectors look for and address issues early, inspections become far less stressful and far more predictable. These are the steps sellers can take to avoid surprises and move forward with confidence.

1. Fix the “big five” before listing. Home inspectors focus heavily on five key areas of every home:

  • Roof
  • HVAC system
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • Foundation

Before inspection day, make sure each of these is in proper working condition. If you’re aware of small problems, address them early to prevent surprises and reduce the risk of repair requests that could delay closing.

“Small fixes now prevent big problems later.”

2. Keep access areas clear for easy inspection. Inspectors need full access to your home’s mechanical systems. Blocked or hard-to-reach areas often get flagged, raising questions that are easily avoided with clear access.

Make sure there is clear, well-lit access to:

  • Attic and crawlspace openings
  • Electrical panels
  • Furnace and water heater

Clean, accessible spaces show transparency and make the inspection smoother from the start. It also prevents the impression that something might be hidden.

3. Handle known issues proactively. If you already know something is not working properly, do not wait for the inspector to find it.

Whether it’s non-functioning GFCI outlets, wood rot on a deck, or a minor plumbing issue, you have two smart options:

  • Fix it before the inspection, or
  • Disclose it upfront

Buyers are far more accepting of known issues than surprises. Transparency builds trust and often prevents negotiations from falling apart later in the process.

4. Consider a pre-listing home inspection. For sellers who want total peace of mind, a pre-listing home inspection is one of the most effective tools available.

Inspecting your home before it hits the market allows you to:

  • Fix issues in advance
  • Price the home accurately
  • Disclose repairs confidently
  • Avoid last-minute surprises after you’re under contract

Sellers who take this step often sell faster and with fewer concessions. Passing a home inspection is not about perfection. It is about preparation and transparency.

Preparing for a home inspection does not have to be stressful. With the right plan in place, you can eliminate anxiety, reduce surprises, and keep your sale on track.

If you want help getting your home inspection-ready or would like guidance on what to fix and what to leave alone, don’t hesitate to reach out at (805) 878-2225 or email kandie@countryrealestate.com. I’m always happy to walk you through the process and help you every step of the way.

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