House inspections are daunting, but fret no more.
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Wagga’s LJ Hooker property manager Corina Thomsen has delivered the latest in tips and guidance to successfully pass your house inspection and land on your agent’s A-list.
Here are the top tips to consider when preparing for your house inspection:
1. Prepare
Like everything, preparation never goes astray.
As soon as you’re notified of an upcoming house inspection, start with the small incremental tasks, which will save you from a last-minute freak out.
2. Be up-front
Accidents happen, but if you’ve got something to own up to, do it.
Failure to do this will likely leave you with more stress and paying more money than it’s worth.
“If something has been broken in the property – whether it’s the cause of the tenant or visiting parties, accidental or negligence – then it is the tenant’s responsibility to repair as soon as possible by a qualified tradesperson,” Ms Thomsen said.
“Covering a large hole with a poster is not the solution to an accident. Don’t be that person.”
If you can’t get it fixed, always let the agent know and they will assist you with the correct advice and provide you contacts to move your situation forward.
3. First impressions always count
“The agent is not there to criticise the living conditions of your tenancy – as we appreciate, not everyone lives the same – but to merely ensure the property is being cared for by the tenant,” Ms Thomsen said.
Clutter can sometimes make it difficult for the property manager to see any underlying concerns.
Ms Thomsen advised residents to take the opportunity to finally do that “spring cleaning” you’ve been meaning to do for months.
“Tenants are to ensure that the property manager is able to see all walls, ceiling, floor spaces and any areas that could indicate any issues within the property overall,” she said.
4. Go a little bit further than tidying
Ensure all stains are removed. This means:
- Walls and doors are cleaned of all marks.
- Stove, grill, oven and exhaust fans are cleaned.
- Windows and sills are cleaned inside, and outside.
5. Pets
If you’re allowed pets on the property, lucky you.
However, on inspection day, it is a good idea to arrange alternative accommodation or make sure they are happily secured with their toys, food and water.
“There is nothing worse than fighting someone’s very anxious dog at the back door trying to get in, while you’re trying to exit to finalise the report,” Ms Thomsen said.
6. Don’t forget the exterior
While the home’s interior is imperative, so too is the property’s lawns and gardens.
7. Communication is key
“We understand this is your home. We understand busy mums and dads, sick kids and life’s little mishaps,” Ms Thomsen said.
“If the tenants keep the lines of communication open with their agent and we are aware the property may not present well due to sickness, then this is not a shock when we walk through the front door and we know what to expect.
“All we ask at a routine inspection is for the property to be presented in a satisfactory standard, lawns and gardens tidied, and repairs reported.”
Lastly, Ms Thomsen said don’t sweat the small stuff.
So if you’ve got a few dirty dishes in the sink, it’s not a big deal and won’t cost you to fail the inspection.