Seller's guide

Sellers have their homes inspected prior to placing their homes on the market, and for completely different reasons than buyers, and with more benefits to them.

A professional inspection report provided up front, as a supplement to the seller’s required disclosures, puts the seller in a stronger negotiating position. It also provides for a smoother transaction, with increased trust, and less headaches and anxiety for all parties.
By having the property inspected up front, the potential for surprises is greatly reduced. Fewer surprises mean less opportunity for disagreement, and less likelihood that the transaction will fall apart.
It can also reduce negotiating points, and bypass annoying delays in the transaction.
A listing inspection also tends to avoid the undesirable situation of the seller having to negotiate repairs within the limited escrow period.
Since the property is not listed or in escrow, the seller can negotiate repairs any way that they wish, including doing the repairs themselves.
By having repairs done up front, the home will show better, and may draw a better price.
Even if they intend on selling the home as-is, the inspection report can serve as a valuable tool to help set and negotiate a realistic and competitive sales price.
Many homes that have been occupied by the same owners for many years have undergone extensive modification. A pre-listing inspection will reveal whether or not that work was completed at a level consistent with industry standards of the time.
By obtaining an inspection up front, the seller demonstrates good faith in carrying out their required disclosures. Their pro-active efforts communicate to the buyer that they are willing to disclose something rather than hide it, thereby paving the way for smoother and more agreeable transactions