A lot of money goes into buying a house, so it is understandable if a seller feels hesitant investing even more money to fix up their house when they decide to put it on the market. However, sellers may not realize that some of the issues they live with everyday and consider minor, such as the outlet that doesn't work or the kitchen sink with a slow leak, may actually be considered major to potential home buyers.
These issues can prevent buyers from making an offer on a home or if they do, the offer may be lower than the list price because they feel like the home is not well maintained. It’s crucial to keep your house presentable and in good shape. Before listing, take a hard look at the following areas and consider fixing, if needed, before you hit the market.
ROOF
A roof is one of the most important components of a home, protecting all that is underneath. Additionally, roofs are major expenses to replace. Therefore, it is imperative to keep the roof well maintained and free of damage and leaks. Issues like water and sun damage, clogged gutters, and rot will lead to bigger issues if not fixed in a timely manner. Tending to these items immediately will help prevent further damage.
MAINTENANCE
Minor issues such as damaged flooring, chipped paint, and old carpeting can be easily fixed and will give your home a fresh and well maintained feel. Your goal is to make your home as appealing as possible to as many buyers as possible, even the picky ones. So start by replacing anything that is heavily worn and adding a fresh coat of paint. These minor upgrades can be inexpensive but time intensive, so stay on top of your home maintenance during ownership. You'll be happy you did when the time comes to sell.
PLUMBING
A minor plumbing problem can lead to major issues. It is critical to take care of plumbing problems right away as they can lead to further problems like mold and rot, resulting in potentially having to replace flooring, walls, and more.
ELECTRICAL
Electrical problems can cause a wide variety of problems in a home. Smaller fixes such as faulty switches, missing wire nuts, or damaged junction boxes can be fixed with a good electrician. Replacing a circuit breaker might be needed if they don’t match the amperage of your home. Some repairs are obvious while others are not. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed electrician to inspection your property prior to listing.
With a little organization and attention to your home's maintenance, you should be ready to list your home when the time comes that meets industry guidelines, local, state and national codes, and tugs at the heartstrings of the pickiest buyer.
Until next time,
la chasse au bonheur
