Lower Anxieties/Improve Marketability

By David Olson, Realtor · October 24, 2026 · 3 min read
Lower Anxieties/Improve Marketability
Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · License #BK3603584
Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Twin Cities home, Twin Cities Property Finder
Practical notes for Twin Cities buyers, sellers and owners

For many sellers, the most nerve-racking part of a sale is waiting for the buyer’s inspection report. You’ve disclosed what you know. The worry is what you don’t know.

If the inspector finds a surprise, the buyer may ask for a big repair, or simply walk away. Buyers aren’t yet invested in the house, and it’s human nature to fear what you don’t understand.

Here are two ways to take the anxiety out of it.

Getting ready to sell?Let’s find the surprises before a buyer does.

Inspect before you list

A pre-listing inspection shows you what a buyer’s inspector is likely to find while you still have time to fix it, price for it or explain it. Anything you learn generally has to be disclosed, but it beats being surprised in the middle of a deal.

Sharing the report with buyers can build confidence, even if they still hire their own inspector. Compared with the price of a home, the cost is small.

Consider a home warranty

A home warranty, sometimes called a home protection plan, can cover certain systems and appliances for the buyer’s first year. It can reassure buyers, and some plans also cover the seller while the home is listed. Read what’s covered and what isn’t.

A builder’s eye helps

As a licensed contractor, I walk homes looking for what inspectors flag, and Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate on repairs. Start with a home value estimate, the seller questionnaire and my home staging guide.

A simple plan for your pre-listing inspections move

I’ve been helping people buy and sell homes across the west metro for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. For the local picture, read my Chaska homes guide or browse neighborhoods in Chanhassen and Victoria.

Your next step in pre-listing inspections

Every move is different. When you’re ready to talk about yours, I’m a call or text away.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with buyers and sellers, and that’s where I can help you most in pre-listing inspections.

Twin Cities market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David

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