A Pre-Sale or Maintenance Inspection Adds Value to the Home and Helps Identify Potential Issues DES PLAINES, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI): April is National Home Inspection month. An inspection before you sell your house can add value to the home and help to speed up the process and likelihood of an offer. Homeowners should schedule a maintenance inspection every three to five years to identify problems before they become costly repairs. Whether you are planning to put your home on the market or are expecting to stay in it for several years, this may be the right time to hire a home inspector. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), April is National Home Inspection Month. The association reminds homeowners that a new home purchase is not the only time for a home inspection. Bill Richardson, ASHI president, said, "In a down market, a pre-sale inspection can make a home stand out. More and more, sellers are obtaining pre-sale inspections to help uncover and address any issues before the first prospective buyer walks through the door. This simple step can allow for better planning and lower expense in making repairs, add value to the home and help speed up the process and the likelihood of an offer." In addition to pre-sale inspections, Richardson also emphasized the need to get a home inspection every three to five years to improve maintenance and avoid costly repairs. During a routine inspection, all the visible and readily accessible components and systems are checked. This includes everything from the foundation, roof and gutters, to a home's exterior and interior walls, electrical wiring and plumbing. "In this uncertain economic time, it is important to be able to plan ahead," Richardson said. "People who leave their houses unchecked are taking a significant risk. In some cases, that could be 10, 15 or even more years during which time a minor, unnoticed repair could become a significant expense or be the culprit of major damage or safety issues. A basic maintenance home inspection can cost far less than an expensive repair. An ASHI home inspector can often spot potential problems before the damage happens."
