Selling a home is a stressful process even when everything goes right. There is A LOT of time, energy, paperwork, and emotions that go into it, and even little complications can feel like massive burdens. But, when homeowners ask us if they should get a roof inspection before they list their home, our answer is always yes!
Not only does it pay to be safer than sorry, but it can also help prevent issues during the process. Knowledge is power, and this is especially true when selling a home, so getting a roof inspection early is just plain smart! Read on to learn the three main ways getting a roof inspection can help you on your home selling journey (#3 may surprise you!).
1. Don’t Let Your Roof Make You Fail Your Home Inspection
You may already know that an official home inspection is part of the closing process. Home inspectors are usually third-party companies that are unbiased in the final report. They are also expertly trained to spot problems that could devalue your home or kill the deal entirely – like a bad roof or mold.
Even if you are familiar with your home, there could be issues that you’re not aware of. That’s why a roof inspection can save you a ton of stress in the long run and help spot any problems before they make it on the final report.
2. Don’t Let Your Roof Devalue Your Home
Your roof makes up about 40% of the overall curb appeal of your home. Missing shingles, existing damage, and debris buildup can send a huge red flag to potential homebuyers. Even worse, a roof in bad shape can lower your home’s overall value. Knowing how much life your roof system has left can help you through the negotiations process should you decide not to replace it.
3. Don’t Let Your Roof Prevent Your Home From Selling Or Slow Down The Process
If your home was hit by hail or severe weather and still has damage, it could throw a wrench into your plans to sell. If hail damage makes its way onto the home inspection report, you have a few options:
1. You Ignore It
Many buyers will back out of the sale if you don’t plan to fix the issue. Plus, the majority of insurance companies won’t insure the property for another buyer due to known damage. No one wins in this situation.
2. File A Claim
In most cases, homeowner’s insurance covers storm damage. This is good news because you won’t be out of pocket for a full roof or repairs, but the home sale process will take longer than anticipated.
3. Designate Claim to Buyer
Similar to scenario #2, you file a claim, but instead of waiting to get repairs done, you assign the claim benefits to the home buyer. As the seller, you will still be responsible for the deductible, but this puts the responsibility of the work on the new owner. Insurance companies and lenders will not usually allow this.
The best-case scenario, especially if you have hail damage, is to get a roof inspection now, before you list your home. This way, while you are hunting for new homes, filing paperwork, and getting a loan, the work on your roof will be done, and you’ll be ready to list. Plus, a new roof adds home value, which could mean a higher listing price. Now that’s a win-win!
Have questions or need more information? We’re happy to help! Contact us at 855-369-1004 or use our online contact form to schedule a roof inspection today.
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