Know what buyers will find before you list.
A pre-listing inspection is the same thorough inspection a buyer would get, done for you, the seller. Learn the condition of your home on your own schedule, so you can decide what to repair before you list.
Know your home before buyers do.
More and more sellers have their homes inspected by a private inspector before listing. It’s a chance to learn what a buyer’s inspection is likely to turn up, while there’s still time to address it.
Repair on your timeline
Take care of repairs at your own pace and with the contractors you choose.
Share it, or keep it private
You decide whether to make the report available to buyers or keep it for your own use.
Fewer surprises
Go into the buyer’s inspection already knowing your home’s condition. Ask your agent how to handle anything you choose not to repair.
What a pre-listing inspection gives you.
Without a pre-listing inspection
- You learn about your home’s condition from the buyer’s inspection, after you’re under contract.
- Issues come up on someone else’s timeline.
- There’s little time to get repair quotes or plan.
With a pre-listing inspection
- You get a detailed report on your home’s condition before you list.
- You choose what to repair, when and with whom.
- You list knowing what’s in your home.
Does your city require a Truth in Housing evaluation?
Many cities in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area require an inspection before a home can be listed. A pre-listing inspection is separate from that requirement. See our Truth in Housing requirements and Truth in Housing basics.
- Hire an excellent inspector. One who misses or glosses over problems can do more harm than good.
- Same thoroughness as a buyer’s inspection. The only difference is who the client is.
- Pricing. Call our office at 952-915-6466 for a quote.
Getting ready to sell?
Find out what buyers will find, before they do.
Pre-Listing Inspection FAQs
Quick answers from the Structure Tech team. Don’t see your question? Call (952) 915-6466.
What is a pre-listing inspection?
A pre-listing inspection is a full home inspection that the seller orders before the house goes on the market.
You get a report on the condition of the house and anything you might want to deal with before buyers start poking around.
Why inspect before listing my home?
A pre-listing inspection lets you find problems on your own schedule instead of the buyer’s.
You get time to understand them, get contractor quotes, and plan, rather than scrambling during a tight inspection deadline.
When should I schedule a pre-listing inspection?
Schedule your pre-listing inspection early enough to read the report and take care of anything you want fixed before you list.
Work out the timing with your agent and your planned market date.
Will I receive a written report?
Yes. A pre-listing inspection comes with a detailed written report.
If you just want verbal guidance without a report, that’s what our pre-listing consultation is for.
Can I share the report with potential buyers?
Yes, you can share your pre-listing inspection report with buyers.
Talk with your agent about how to present the findings and how to document any repairs you’ve made.
Does a pre-listing inspection replace the buyer’s inspection?
No. Buyers can still get their own independent inspection.
Your pre-listing report helps you prepare, but it won’t stop buyers from asking questions or checking the house out themselves.
Do I need a pre-listing inspection if my city requires TISH?
It’s still worth considering. A TISH evaluation follows the city’s specific checklist, while a pre-listing inspection gives you a much broader look at the house.
They do two different jobs.
Does a pre-listing inspection guarantee an easier sale?
No. A pre-listing inspection can cut down on surprises, but it can’t guarantee a sale, a price, or how negotiations go.
What it does is help you get ready for buyer questions and plan your repairs.
Should I repair everything the inspector finds?
No, you don’t have to fix everything. A pre-listing inspection helps you prioritize.
Talk with your agent about which repairs are worth doing and how to handle the rest.
How should I prepare for a pre-listing inspection?
Make sure we can get to the attic, electrical panel, mechanical equipment, and everything else we’ll be inspecting.
Tell us about anything you already know is wrong, plus any access limits or systems that aren’t running.
Still have questions? We’re happy to help.
Schedule Your Inspectionor call (952) 915-6466 · Monday – Sunday, 8 am – 5 pm