Should You Get a Home Inspection Before Listing? Here’s the Wise Seller’s Guide

One of the smartest questions a seller can ask before listing is: “Would it be wise to get a home inspection before I put my house on the market?”

The short answer: Yes — in most cases, it’s a strategic move. A pre-listing inspection gives you control, transparency, and leverage. In today’s Portland market, where buyers are cautious and negotiations are tight, this step can make the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one.

What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection?

A pre-listing inspection is a professional home inspection that you, the seller, order before listing your home. It’s similar to what buyers do after an accepted offer — but in this case, it’s proactive.

You’ll receive a detailed report on the home’s structure, systems, and any potential issues (roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.), allowing you to decide what to fix — and what to disclose.

Top Benefits of a Pre-Listing Inspection

1. It Builds Buyer Confidence

Buyers appreciate transparency. When you provide an inspection report upfront, it signals honesty and reduces uncertainty — especially important for older Portland homes where surprises can derail deals.

So what? Confidence builds trust — and trust builds stronger offers.

2. It Prevents Last-Minute Negotiations

Nothing kills momentum like a buyer’s inspection revealing hidden repairs. By identifying issues early, you can:

• Fix them on your terms (with your preferred contractors and timeline)

• Price accordingly if you choose not to repair

• Avoid renegotiation headaches later

So what? You stay in control of your pricing and timing.

3. It Speeds Up the Sale

Homes with pre-listing inspections tend to move faster because buyers feel more secure waiving inspection contingencies or shortening timelines. That means fewer delays and stronger offers.

4. It Protects You Legally

Full disclosure of known defects protects you from post-sale disputes. Oregon’s property disclosure laws favor proactive transparency — and a professional inspection supports your integrity as a seller.

When Might You Skip It?

A pre-listing inspection isn’t always necessary. You might skip it if:

• You’re selling “as-is” or to investors

• The home is new or recently inspected

• Time or budget are tight

In those cases, focus on key visible repairs (paint, roof maintenance, systems checks) and be ready for the buyer’s inspection later.

The Portland Perspective

Many Portland neighborhoods — from Alameda to Sellwood to Mt. Tabor — have older homes with vintage wiring, oil tanks, or foundation quirks. A pre-listing inspection helps surface these issues before they become deal-breakers.

So What? Why This Matters for Sellers

Getting a pre-listing inspection isn’t just about peace of mind — it’s about power.

• You control your narrative

• You demonstrate care and integrity

• You attract serious buyers faster

• You minimize stress and surprise costs

If you’re preparing to sell in 2025, a pre-listing inspection can position your home as market-ready — and that translates directly into higher buyer confidence and stronger offers.

Final Thought:
Selling is emotional. You deserve clarity and control throughout the process. I’ll help you decide whether a pre-listing inspection makes sense for your home and how to leverage it in your marketing plan.

📞 Lisa Mehlhoff Homes, Portland Realtor
Guided by Clarity, Care, and Communication — helping Portland sellers move forward with confidence.