🛠️ Home Inspection Tips for Sellers: What Sellers Should (and Shouldn’t) Do During the Inspection

WISDOM HIS-Michael Hetzel
Jun 19
3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

A woman in a red tunic holds keys at the door with a man. Another man in a blue cap and shirt holds a clipboard. Warm, inviting mood. — A smooth inspection starts with a thoughtful handoff—sellers setting the stage for a successful, stress-free process.

Real Estate Ready Series – Week 3

You’ve cleaned. You’ve decluttered. You’ve done your prep work.Now the big day is here — the home inspection.But what exactly should you do as the seller during the inspection process? More importantly, what shouldn’t you do?

Even if your home is in great shape, how you behave during the inspection can affect how buyers feel about the property — and how smoothly negotiations go.

Here’s a quick etiquette guide for inspection day to help you stay professional, respectful, and seller-savvy.

Bottle and papers on a counter with a "Welcome" sign. Blurred living room in background, warm lighting. Cozy and inviting atmosphere. — A clean, well-lit space with simple touches shows buyers and inspectors that the home is cared for and ready.

✅ DO: Leave the House During the Inspection

Buyers feel more comfortable asking questions and getting candid input when the seller isn’t present.Inspectors also work best without distractions or pressure. Leaving the house shows respect for the process and creates trust on all sides.

Tip: Plan to be out of the home for at least 2.5 to 3 hours to give the inspector time to evaluate all major systems and take photos.

✅ DO: Leave Utilities On and Systems Accessible

If the power, water, or gas is off — or if the furnace is blocked by storage bins — the inspection report will be incomplete. This can lead to delays, re-inspection fees, or even contract issues.

Make sure the inspector can easily access:

Electrical panel
Furnace / HVAC unit
Water heater
Attic and crawl space
Garage and outbuildings
All bedrooms, bathrooms, and appliances

✅ DO: Make the Home Feel Welcoming

You don’t need to bake cookies or write a love letter — just simple touches go a long way:

Leave a small note saying “Welcome” or “Thanks for visiting”
Turn on lights in each room
Leave keys to any locked areas
Set out property disclosures and service records
Make sure the pets are safely out of the way

⚠️ DON’T: Follow the Inspector Around or Hover

It might be tempting to explain things or point out features you’re proud of — but it’s better to resist.Buyers want a clear-eyed, independent assessment.

Interrupting or tagging along can come off as anxious or controlling, even if that’s not your intent.

Let the inspector do their job, and follow up through your agent later if any clarifications are needed.

⚠️ DON’T: Try to Hide Known Defects

Inspectors are trained to look closely.Trying to cover up issues — like painting over stains or blocking damaged areas — often backfires.It can raise red flags and lead to deeper skepticism about the rest of the house.

Be honest and transparent. If repairs are in progress or estimates are available, leave them on the counter for reference.

⚠️ DON’T: Leave Valuables or Personal Documents Out

The inspection process involves photos, opening cabinets, and accessing closets and drawers.It’s not snooping — it’s part of the job.

Put away:

Jewelry and valuables
Personal or sensitive paperwork
Medications
Firearms or weapons

This protects both you and the buyer and avoids any misunderstandings.

Man in a green shirt and yellow hard hat examines an attic with a flashlight. Dim lighting, wooden beams visible in the background. — Professional home inspectors conduct detailed evaluations in hard-to-reach areas—giving buyers peace of mind and sellers a smooth process.

🧰 Final Thought: Home Inspection Tips for Sellers – Trust the Process and Step Aside

A successful inspection isn’t just about what’s found — it’s also about how it’s experienced.By preparing the home, leaving graciously, and avoiding common pitfalls, you create a positive environment for the buyer, the inspector, and yourself.

It’s one more way to keep your deal on track and moving toward a smooth closing.