You're going to be moving and now it's time to get your house on the market. With all the hustle and bustle, don't forget about your home inspection!

While your potential buyer will schedule a home inspection prior to closing on your house, it's also a good idea to schedule your own before you list your property. Your own home inspection may bring to light items that you need to fix or update before you list your house, to ensure you get the best price.

Every home, new or old, requires an inspection. Here's some areas on your property you can count on being inspected:

Property Site/Grounds
Garage
Home Exterior/Siding
Roofing/Gutters
Structure
Foundation/Basement
Heating/Cooling
Plumbing/Electrical
Attic
Insulation Quality

There's a few items to add to your home inspection preparation check list that will help things go more smoothly:

Check all doors and windows for working locks and hinges.

Check to make sure the sump pump is working, if you have one.

Remove, replace or repair any rotting wood inside or outside the house.

Replace any light bulbs in light fixtures.

Check that bath vents are in working condition.

Remove all paints, solvents, and gas from attic/basement/crawlspace.

Make sure to turn on all utilities if you've already moved out of your house and the house is vacant.

Clean dirty gutters and clear debris from the roof.

Water should flow away from the house. Clear all basement entry drains and exterior downspouts.

Trim landscaping (i.e. grass, trees, roots, bushes, flowers, gardens, etc.).

Touch up paint.

Check the caulk around the trim, chimney, windows and doors. Need help? Contact a roofing company or chimney inspector for assistance.

Seal any major cracks in sidewalks or driveways.

Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're working properly.

Update attic ventilation if needed.

Clean chimney, fireplace, or wood stove or have it professionally cleaned.

Seal masonry walls in your basement or lower floor level.

Your home inspector will examine and report on what they can see from their own observations. At the end of the inspection, they'll give you a written report of findings and potential repairs needed. For any major problems, ask them to provide photos in addition to reporting so that you can clearly identify concerns when you enlist a professional for help with repairs. NAHI requires all their home inspectors adhere to their Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

Good luck on your upcoming cross country move, and happy home inspecting!