Nearly all buyers will hire a professional home inspector to take a close look at their new home before closing. Sometimes home inspections are done before the home goes under contract.

Home inspections cover numerous systems within the house, but there are a handful of hot-spots that worry buyers the most. Don't wait for inspection day to assess the condition of your home and make necessary home repairs. Small problems can turn into big headaches more quickly than you might imagine, requiring a chunk of cash to fix and perhaps lowering the home's market value.

Mold & Mildew
Mildew stains and odors scare buyers, especially now that toxic black mold is such a hot topic. Chances are you won't even get an acceptable offer if mold and mildew are present.

Even if the mold in your house is the normal variety--and not stachybotrys chartarum--take care of it immediately. Kill the mold and mildew and fix the source of the problem.

The Roof & Its Neighbors
Deteriorated shingles or other roof coverings are one of the first things home buyers and home inspectors notice. If the elements underneath the shingles are moist or rotted, you can bet repairs will be requested.

Clean the gutters and make sure downspouts are positioned so that water runs away from the house.

Flashing around the base of chimneys should be watertight. Mortar and bricks should be in good condition.

Plumbing Problems
Fix leaks and clogs long before the home inspection takes place. The inspector will check water pressure by turning on multiple faucets and flushing toilets at the same time. Appliances such as dishwashers and clothes washers will be tested, too. Leaks and clogs will be apparent during these checks.
The home inspector might check the septic system. During one method dyes are flushed down a stool. The inspector waits to see if the dye surfaces on the drainfield, indicating a drainage problem.

Other Systems
The inspector will check the heating and cooling systems, making sure they work and commenting about their efficiency. The inspector will take a close look at the structure and foundation. All appliances will be checked. The inspection report will include details about smoke detectors.

Before the Inspection
Do everything you can to get the house in good condition before you attempt to sell it, but don't be discouraged if the inspection report contains negative statements. Home inspectors make note of everything they see. No home is perfect.

Remember that the home inspection report is not a wish-list for buyers. Read your contract carefully--it probably states which systems should be in good working order at closing. For instance, if the roof is older, but doesn't leak, it is in good working order. If there's a leak, and fixing just the leak is possible, the roof will be in good working order.

Your contract may also state that you are under no obligation to make any repairs at all--although the buyers can then likely withdraw from the contract. Don't feel you must comply with unreasonable demands for repairs.

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