Help your sellers avoid costly inspection surprises this spring—Mark Harman shares what to fix before it hits the report.
Spring Tune-Up: What Buyers Overlook—But Inspectors Never Miss
Spring is in the air here in California — and so are lots of homes hitting the market. With more inventory and buyers taking their time, a smart agent’s best advantage is helping clients catch the little things before they become big negotiation problems.
Today, we’re sharing a few small but critical details that experienced inspectors like Mark Harman (25+ years, 8,800+ inspections completed!) catch every day — but homeowners often miss.
Passing these insights along to your sellers (or knowing what to look for with your buyers) can help you protect deals, reduce surprises, and build even more trust this season.
Spring Tune-Up: Hidden Issues That Could Cost Sellers
1. Minor Trim Cracks and Gaps
Small cracks around doors, windows, and thresholds invite moisture — leading to wood rot and pest entry. Mark often catches these early before they escalate into serious damage.
🛠 Fix it now: Caulking or sealing prevents bigger headaches later.
2. Roof Flashing Wear
After a rainy winter, flashing around chimneys and vents can fail. Mark frequently flags flashing as one of the most overlooked causes of roof leaks during inspections.
🛠 Fix it now: Professional resealing can save your clients thousands.
3. Irrigation Leaks & Hose Bib Drips
Dripping hose bibs and hidden irrigation leaks are common springtime finds that lead to soggy soil and foundation warnings.
🛠 Fix it now: Simple plumbing fixes prevent bigger inspection red flags.
4. Drainage and Grading Issues
Subtle grading issues cause water to pool around foundations — a detail often missed by sellers but easily spotted during an inspection.
🛠 Fix it now: Proper drainage extensions protect the home’s value.
Why This Matters for Agents This Spring
Buyers are cautious. Inventory is up.
Homes that show clean, well-maintained details move faster—and negotiate stronger.
By helping sellers tune up their homes now (or recommending a pre-listing inspection with a trusted expert like Mark Harman), you protect deals and offer real value to your clients.
Need an Expert Eye Before Listing?
If you or your sellers would like a professional set of eyes on the home before it hits the market, Mark Harman is ready to help.
With over 25 years of experience and more than 8,800 inspections completed across Northern California, Mark knows exactly what buyers—and their inspectors—are looking for.
Let’s make sure there are no surprises when it matters most.
Click here Schedule an Inspection with Mark Harman or call 209-324-3180
