A seller's inspection is very much like the home inspection. Every part of the home that is accessible is inspected. There may be things that the seller knows about portions of the inspection that make it unnecessary to perform those aspects of the full home inspection. For example, the seller may know if the range or dishwasher are not working properly, thus foregoing the testing of those appliances.
The major difference between an inspection for a buyer versus an inspection for a seller is the report itself. If a seller has a current service contract with a pesticide company for termites, there is no need for us to write a HUD form, although we will look for the presence of termites. Because of the seller's familiarity with the home, they may only wish to have a verbal reporting of the findings. On the contrary, if the inspection is performed for someone unfamiliar with the property, like an heir or executor, it is important to have written results.
As is the case with our full home inspection, the seller is entitled to our ongoing service program for the extent of their ownership of the property we inspect. Questions regarding repairs that should be made prior to the marketing of the home are common. Referrals for service people and advice on estimates are also questions that come in frequently. Because of the vast experience of our president, not only as an inspector, but as a Real Estate broker (non-practicing), we are able to give advice on things that can be done to enhance the marketing of the property. As he always says, "$20.00 worth of paint in a can is worth $2000 when it's been applied professionally to a wall", and "If your first impression of the exterior is not good, it doesn't matter how wonderful the interior is. No buyers will see it." We do not offer any advice on pricing on any of our inspections. That is not our expertise, and should be handled by a licensed full time Real Estate professional or appraiser.