A buyer’s inspection is when a licensed home inspector visits your property to look for problems—big or small—that could affect the value or safety of your home. They’ll check major systems like plumbing, electrical, and heating, as well as the roof, foundation, windows, and more.

If the inspector finds serious issues, the buyer may ask you to make repairs, lower your price, or even walk away. Preparing in advance can reduce the risk of delays, renegotiations, or losing the buyer altogether. That’s why being proactive is one of the smartest things FSBO sellers can do.

Step 1: Do a Mini-Inspection Yourself

Before the buyer’s inspector arrives, walk through your home as if you were the one buying it. Look for signs of wear, damage, or anything that seems off. Check faucets, light switches, outlets, windows, doors, and HVAC systems. Catching small issues early lets you handle them before they appear in the report.

Step 2: Tackle Easy Repairs

You don’t need a full renovation, but small fixes make a big difference. Replace lightbulbs, tighten loose handles, seal cracks, and unclog drains. These simple updates show buyers you’ve cared for your home.

Step 3: Make Sure Everything Is Accessible

Inspectors need clear access to the attic, basement, electrical panel, furnace, and water heater. Clearing the way avoids delays and prevents unnecessary red flags.

Step 4: Clean and Present Your Home Well

A tidy home makes a better impression—not just on the inspector, but also on the buyer. While cleanliness doesn’t change the report, it signals that the home has been maintained.

Step 5: Gather Important Documents

Have paperwork ready for upgrades, repairs, and maintenance. Receipts, service records, warranties, and permits provide peace of mind and show buyers you’ve kept the property in good condition.

Step 6: Plan to Be Away During the Inspection

Inspections usually take two to four hours. It’s best to leave the home during this time so the inspector and buyer can focus without distractions.

Step 7: Be Ready for the Results

Don’t panic if issues show up in the report—almost every inspection finds something. Stay open to discussion and be prepared to negotiate repairs, credits, or adjustments.

Setting Yourself Up for FSBO Success in 2025

When you sell FSBO, every step matters—including preparing for the inspection. By addressing small problems early, keeping your home accessible and clean, and gathering your records, you set yourself up for a smoother process.

With ListWithFreedom’s flat fee MLS, you don’t just get exposure to thousands of buyers—you also keep control of the process and avoid paying full commission. Pairing the right preparation with the right listing strategy helps you sell faster and smarter.

👉 Ready to list your home the smart way?
➝ See our pricing plans
➝ Learn how it works
➝ Get in touch with our team to start your listing today.