Preparing Your Home for a Summer Listing Inspection

Preparing Your Home for a Summer Listing Inspection
By City Home Inspectors

☀️ Summer is prime time for selling homes in the Chicago area—but it’s also when inspections uncover heat-related red flags that can delay or derail deals.

The solution? Prep smartly. Here’s how to get your home inspection-ready during the summer months and breeze through the process.

🖼️ Picture This

You’ve got buyers lined up and showing traffic is high. But during inspection, the AC struggles, condensation is pooling in the basement, and overgrown landscaping hides a siding issue.

Suddenly, the buyer wants concessions—or worse, they walk.

✅ Summer-Specific Inspection Prep Checklist

1. Test & Tune the HVAC System

• Schedule an HVAC service call

• Replace air filters

• Make sure thermostats function properly

• Clean vents and clear the outdoor condenser unit

2. Check Window Seals & Screens

• Look for condensation between panes

• Ensure windows open and lock smoothly

• Patch or replace torn screens

• Re-caulk or weatherstrip if you feel airflow

3. Mind the Landscaping

• Trim shrubs and trees away from siding and roof

• Keep vegetation 12–18 inches from the foundation

• Clear vines or growth hiding damage or cracks

4. Keep the Basement Cool & Dry

• Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture

• Check for musty smells or mold spots

• Seal visible cracks and ensure sump pump works

• Ensure dryer vents and fans are venting outside

💡 Bonus Tip: Leave a Cool First Impression

Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature before the inspection. It not only keeps the inspector happy—it shows the HVAC is working efficiently under summer stress.

🎯 Inspections in summer expose how well a home performs under pressure. By prepping in advance, you show pride of ownership and prevent heat-triggered surprises.

📅 Planning to list this summer? Schedule a pre-listing inspection with www.cityhomeinspectors.com and stay ahead of the game.