Ace Your HOA Resale Inspection in Ashburn

Selling a home in an Ashburn HOA and wondering how to pass the resale inspection without last‑minute stress? You are not alone. The resale certificate and exterior inspection can influence your timeline, your buyer’s confidence, and even your bottom line. In this guide, you will learn what Ashburn HOAs look for, the Virginia rules and deadlines, fees to expect, and a step‑by‑step plan to prepare. Let’s dive in.

What the HOA resale inspection is

Many Ashburn associations include a physical exterior inspection as part of the resale certificate. An inspector documents visible exterior conditions, notes any open violations, and verifies that exterior changes were approved. Local communities often include photos and a summary of findings in the packet. For a clear local example, review the Ashburn Farm Association’s published resale process and checklist on its resale packet page.

Virginia rules you should know

• Seller must obtain the resale certificate. In Virginia the seller or the seller’s agent is required to request it, and the association has up to 14 calendar days to deliver after a written request. See Code of Virginia §55.1‑2309.
• Standardized package. The resale certificate is a single, standardized set of documents that includes governing documents, assessments, insurance, and any violations or approvals. See §55.1‑2310.
• Buyer cancellation window. Buyers generally have a short statutory right to cancel tied to delivery of the resale certificate, often three calendar days unless the contract says otherwise. See §55.1‑2312.
• Fees and payment timing. Associations may charge preparation, delivery, inspection, and expedited fees. By law, fees are typically due when you order and the association must publish its fee schedule. See §55.1‑2316.

What inspectors commonly check

Inspectors focus on exterior condition and compliance. Expect attention to:

• Siding, trim, paint, gutters, downspouts, and visible roof issues.
• Decks, porches, stairs, and railings for stability and repair needs.
• Fences and gates for missing pickets, leaning posts, and approved materials.
• Landscaping, lawn, weeds, grading, trash can storage, and exterior accessories.
• Driveway and walkways for cracks, trip hazards, or oil stains.
• Mailbox, house numbers, exterior lights, window screens, satellite dishes, solar panels, flags, and seasonal decor within allowed timeframes.
• Verification that exterior alterations were approved and built as approved.

When to order and how long it takes

• Order early. Ask your agent to request the resale certificate as soon as practical. This reduces the risk of delays and limits a late cancellation window for the buyer.
• Standard delivery. Associations have up to 14 calendar days to deliver after a proper written request under §55.1‑2309.
• Expedited options. Many Ashburn communities offer rush service for an extra fee with shorter delivery times.
• Electronic delivery. Request an electronic packet to speed review by your buyer, lender, and settlement agent.

Fees and who pays

• Seller responsibility. You typically pay the resale packet and inspection fees, and you may choose to pay for expedited processing. See §55.1‑2316.
• Community specifics. Each association posts its current fee schedule and ordering steps. For example, Ashburn Farm publishes its process and fees on its resale packet page.
• Other fees. Some associations charge a purchaser post‑closing registration fee, which will be noted in the packet.

Step‑by‑step prep checklist to pass

Use this simple plan to head off common flags before the inspector arrives.

4 to 6 weeks before ordering

• Walk your exterior with a checklist. Look at siding, trim, paint, gutters, decks, fences, windows, lights, mailbox, house numbers, lawn beds, and driveway. Touch up paint, clean gutters, secure loose screens, replace burned‑out bulbs, and clear weeds.
• Gather approvals. Collect your HOA approval letters for any exterior changes such as decks, fences, or landscaping so the packet reflects compliant modifications.

2 to 3 weeks before listing or after ratification

• Order the resale certificate. Submit the request, pay required fees, and choose electronic delivery. Allow up to 14 days for standard delivery or request a rush if needed under §55.1‑2309.

If the inspection finds issues

• Fix what you can quickly. Correct simple items like yard cleanup, touch‑ups, or minor repairs. Then notify the association to schedule a reinspection if offered.
• Document completion. Keep before‑and‑after photos and invoices to show corrections were made.

If violations are noted in the packet

If you cure the items, the association can usually re‑inspect and issue a cure letter. If you choose not to cure, most associations will disclose the violations in the resale packet and outline whether responsibility can transfer to the buyer and on what timeline. Ashburn Farm describes this process on its resale packet page. Discuss strategy with your agent so the plan aligns with your pricing and timeline.

Avoid these common pitfalls

• Relying on an old packet. Do not reuse documents from a prior sale. Virginia requires a new resale certificate request for the current transaction. See guidance from Virginia REALTORS.
• Waiting too long to order. The association may take up to 14 days, and a late delivery can extend the buyer’s cancellation window under §55.1‑2312.
• Ignoring small maintenance items. Most flags are simple fixes like paint touch‑ups, loose trim, weeds, or missing screens. Tackle them before the inspection and keep your packet clean.

Local ordering resources in Ashburn

• Ashburn Farm Association: review the process and fees on the resale packet page.
• Broadlands Association: see ordering steps via FirstService/WelcomeLink on the resale information page.
• Brambleton Community Association: order via HomeWiseDocs on the resales and PUD questionnaires page.

Ready to sell with confidence in Ashburn? Get local guidance, smart prep, and contract timing that protects your goals. Reach out to the Talbot Greenya Group for a smooth, well‑managed sale.

FAQs

What is included in a Virginia HOA resale certificate?

• It is a standardized package that includes governing documents, assessments, insurance, approvals on file, and any violations as required by Virginia’s Resale Disclosure Act.

How long does an Ashburn HOA have to deliver the resale packet?

• Associations generally have up to 14 calendar days after a proper written request, which is set by Virginia law.

Who pays for the HOA resale inspection and documents in Ashburn?

• The seller typically pays preparation, delivery, inspection, and any rush fees, and each association posts its fee schedule.

Can I use an old resale packet from a prior sale in Virginia?

• No, you must obtain a new resale certificate for the current transaction rather than reusing documents from a previous purchase.

What happens if the HOA inspection finds violations before closing?

• You can cure the items and request reinspection for a cure letter, or disclose and negotiate whether the buyer will assume responsibility according to the association’s rules.