Everyone is a little nervous before a test. It's normal. Your expectations and the final result may not always be the same, whether it's a math final, a driving test, or encountering a home inspector when he visits your home for a home inspection. Here's some preparation tips that will make it easier.

As a home inspector since 1992, I've seen almost every scenario that can make it a little more difficult to do my job. I certainly don't want it to be any more stressful for the homeowner than necessary, so I've included a few tips I haven't read anywhere else that might help you prepare and be a little less stressed.

1. The home inspector will be inspecting the attic and crawlspace. Often, when I grab my ladder and proceed to remove the hatch opening, there may be obstructions to the hatch opening, or in the hatch itself, a lot of loose insulation that may fall onto the floor. You can prepare for a good result by removing obstructions and moving loose insulation away from the hatch to avoid a little mess or make sure you have proper insulation hold-backs.
2. Clean your furnace filter. This will benefit you in two ways. One: your furnace will immediately start working a little more efficiently, and it may reveal to the inspector that proper maintenance is a part of your home ownership.
3. While we're on the subject of furnaces, remove any obstructions around the furnace and hot water tank. It's also probably the last place you vacuum or clean. Grab the vacuum and dust-proof the area. Again, this will help your furnace filter work a little less harder.
4. The home inspector must inspect the plumbing to see if there's been amateur work or improper plumbing under your sinks. It's one of the only places where the style and components used throughout the house in plumbing are visible. Take any objects/cleaning supplies, etc. out of the cupboard that contains the plumbing under the sink to make it easier for the home inspector to review this. It's going to speed up the whole inspection process for you as well, because he's probably not going to let obstructions slow him down. If you're aware of problems, it's usually not that difficult to fix the problem first.
5. Again, it's all about obstructions The electrical panel is often hidden behind paintings, posters, etc. Remove these things so that it doesn't become a treasure hunt. Theinspector can review the panel faster, which in the end makes the process less stress free for you.

Watch this space for more hints and tips for the homeowner and the homebuyer to make the home-purchasing experience a happier and less anxiety-ridden one.

A clean and unobstructed area will make things easier for you and your home inspector.

(Photo credit: Will Spaetzel)

More Posts

• Time to think about moisture and mold - especially in the wet Lower Mainland
• Busy Market Sellers tips for a Home Inspection in Greater Vancouver