Should Pasadena Sellers Order a Pre-Listing Sewer Scope or General Inspection?
Should Pasadena sellers order a pre-listing sewer scope or general inspection?
Answer:
Yes—ordering a pre-listing sewer scope or general inspection can save Pasadena sellers time, reduce surprises, and build buyer confidence. May Kunka recommends proactive inspections when selling older homes, hillside properties, or historic Craftsman houses common in Pasadena.
Why Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection?
A pre-listing inspection helps sellers:
Identify issues before buyers do.
Decide whether to make repairs or disclose as-is.
Reduce renegotiations and escrow delays.
Price the home more accurately.
In Pasadena’s competitive market, buyers are reassured when sellers share inspection reports upfront.
Sewer Scopes: A Smart Investment in Pasadena
Why It Matters
Many Pasadena neighborhoods, especially Bungalow Heaven and Madison Heights, have older clay or cast-iron sewer lines. These can crack, shift, or become root-intruded.
What It Costs
A sewer scope inspection typically costs $300–$600—far less than the cost of replacing a damaged line, which can run into the tens of thousands.
Buyer Reactions
Proactive sewer scopes show transparency and reduce buyer skepticism.
They prevent surprises that can lead to last-minute escrow cancellations.
General Home Inspections
A pre-listing general inspection typically covers:
Roof and attic
Plumbing and electrical systems
Foundation and structure
Heating and cooling systems
Safety items like smoke detectors and handrails
This helps sellers decide whether to make repairs, offer credits, or simply disclose findings.
Pasadena Market Insight
In 2025, Pasadena buyers are savvy and cautious—especially in historic neighborhoods. Homes that come with pre-listing inspection reports often receive stronger first offers because buyers feel more confident about hidden conditions.
Pros and Cons of Pre-Listing Inspections
Pros
Fewer escrow surprises
Faster negotiations
Stronger buyer trust
In some cases, higher offers
Cons
You must disclose any issues found
Some sellers prefer to let buyers order their own inspections
May Kunka advises whether pre-listing inspections make sense based on your property type and market strategy.
How May Kunka Helps Sellers Decide
Reviews your home’s age, location, and condition
Connects you with trusted local inspectors
Helps weigh the benefits of repairing vs. disclosing
Prepares a disclosure packet that protects you legally
Final Thoughts: Proactive Sellers Win
Ordering a sewer scope or general inspection isn’t required, but it can be a smart move in Pasadena. Transparency builds trust and can lead to faster, smoother sales.
Ready to Prepare Your Home for Sale?
Contact May Kunka for advice on whether a pre-listing inspection is right for your Pasadena home.