The smartest sellers obtain customary professional inspections before listing their homes for sale. Depending on local custom, such inspections might include termite, radon, energy efficiency and city building codes. In addition, a professional inspection will prevent surprises by revealing home defects. Sellers can then have any defects repaired before placing the home up for sale. The best professional home inspectors are usually members of the American Society of Home Inspectors.
Many sellers refuse to make any home repairs before putting their homes on the market for sale.
But the smartest sellers obtain a professional home inspection and other recommended local inspections. Then they have the recommended repairs completed before listing the home for sale. However, sellers who want to maximize profits will make only obvious, necessary repairs and replacements, such as repairing a leaky roof. Although a new roof won't raise the home's market value, it will increase its appeal to potential buyers. But it's usually best to avoid unprofitable repairs, such as foundation or major renovation.