Inspector would be good for seller too

Professional inspectors give buyers peace of mind when they go through a home to seek out any material defects that could impact the sale. But this task shouldn't happen on the buyer's side alone. Today, a growing number of sellers are employing the expertise of a home inspector to go beyond the drywall (so to speak) before they put the home on the market. This advance preparation can protect sellers from costly last minute surprises.

An inspection, which usually costs a few hundred dollars, is well worth the expense considering the benefits:

Get top dollar. A home that is pre-inspected validates the seller's asking price and gives the buyers confidence in the quality of the home.

Prepare for negotiations. "When the buyer's inspector uncovers issues in the home, it gives the buyer more leverage at the bargaining table," said Jim McEneaney, senior regional vice president for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. "Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of the home before it goes on the market enables the seller's Realtor to set the price of the home accurately."

Comfortable closing. A good inspection sets the record straight about all that's right or wrong with the property for both buyer and seller, making for a smoother closing.