I have been fortunate lately to have some buyers and sellers go to contract and close!! I always give this advise, but folks you need to follow it. Sellers, have your house pre-inspected for termite and other wood pests, AND structural/mechanical items. Then repair the problems. It really makes the sale much easier. Yes it costs you about $300-$500 dollar and the buyer will do their own, but it can save you headaches and may save you money by finding small things, before they become big things.

Buyers, even if you buy a brand new house, have an inspection. Most come up with little things, however recently I had one that had a possible big thing with a HVAC  unit. Since it was caught early, no permanent damage was done. The builder fixed it and evrything is fine. I can tell you many other stories about water heaters, heat units, and various other systems that were new, but not installed correctly. The builders usually are good about fixing things, but why go through the hassle when you have moved in. Let the repairs be done before closing.