Take a minute to imagine what happens when there is not a pre-listing inspection: Typically, the buyer contracts the home with a provision for a professional home inspection. However, the examination may reveal things that the buyer didn't expect. If it doesn't trigger an action to terminate the contract, the buyer will inevitably ask the seller to make all the repairs.
When presented with the buyer's request, the seller may take the opposite position. The buyer can either accept the property in its "as is" condition or negotiate the repairs / a reduced price with the seller.
Any experienced agent can tell you that sometimes a mutually agreed negotiation is reached, and other times, an impasse is met that can't be resolved. As a result, the contract is terminated, and the house goes back on the market, but this time, a disclosure has to be made to all parties looking at the home. Sometimes this may deter showings.
Alternatively, the seller can take a proactive approach to determine things that will probably appear in a buyer's inspection by obtaining a pre-listing inspection. Then, they can get them repaired before the home is shown, which will help the buyer feel more confident with the house. Another option would be to disclose the issues and make a price adjustment; either way, the seller is in control and is transparent with potential buyers.
In some cases, the pre-listing inspection may show things in working order that the buyer's inspection indicates needing repair. With two disinterested parties having opposing opinions, negotiations have a more likely chance for a mutual agreement.
Disclosing things that are not in working order can reduce liability in the future as there will be no surprises for any party involved. For the small investment in the pre-listing inspection, the benefits are well worth the expense.
You and potential buyers will have a better idea of the condition of your property and know what to expect. You can present the property in a transparent way that will build confidence with the buyer. You'll avoid unpleasant surprises as well as possible delays. All that to say, pre-listing inspections can lead to faster sales and satisfaction for everyone involved.