If you follow these suggestions you will cut down on the need for re-inspections, maximize the value of your house and speed the process of getting the loan funded.

Does your home need repairs? Do what you can. The appraiser will consider deferred maintenance in determining the value of the house. Some needed repairs may just lower the value. The lender may require some repairs to be completed, such as termite or dry rot damage or a bad roof. Don't have the money? Your REALTOR® can offer suggestions on how to work this out.

• Get rid of roof moss. Don't pull out live moss, as it will loosen the shingles.
• Treat it with a moss killer, give it a few days to work, then remove it.
• Move any material stacked against the house or garage. If the grounds or house is looking unkept, now's the time to do something about it.
• Fix torn or missing window screens.
• Replace any missing foundation vent-screens or crawl space covers.
• Replace missing crawl space retaining walls. These are inexpensive pre-fab metal pieces that prevent water from flowing under the house.
• Replace broken windows.
• Trim back trees that overhang the roof, especially if branches touch the roof.
• Trim bushes away from the siding of the house. There should be a 6" clearance.
• If you have water stains on the ceiling, get the leak repaired, then paint the stain.
• Fix or replace inoperable appliances.
• Fix or replace missing light fixtures or exposed wires.