How do I prepare my home for a buyer's inspection?

A little preparation makes the inspection go smoothly and leaves a better impression on buyers. Make sure the inspector has clear access to everything: the electrical panel, furnace, water heater, attic hatch, and crawlspace, and move stored items away from those areas, since blocked access means items get noted as not inspected, which makes buyers nervous. Replace burned-out bulbs so nothing reads as a dead fixture, and make sure all utilities are on, you don't want a furnace or AC that couldn't be tested. Test and install fresh batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a quick win Minnesota buyers expect. Handle the cheap obvious stuff: leaky faucets, missing outlet covers, loose handrails, and clear gutters and downspouts so drainage looks managed. Trim back vegetation touching the house and the foundation. Have your pets secured and plan to be away for a few hours so the inspector and buyer can work freely. If you have records of recent roof, furnace, or panel work, leave them out, they answer questions before they're asked. None of this hides problems, it just prevents a clean home from looking neglected. Thinking ahead to your own sale? Build a free instant quote for a pre-listing inspection so nothing catches you off guard.