Your Pre-Sale To-Do List
The home inspection is an evitable, and almost always contingent part of successfully closing on an offer contract. Many of the necessary repairs and issues noted as a result of the inspection process could have been easily – and less expensively – taken care of prior to the seller listing the home for sale. Some sellers, unfortunately, are forced to discount the price of their home or face the possibility of their buyer withdrawing the offer contract altogether. Don’t jeopardize the sale of your home or your future potential profits by making sure to address these items before you list your home for sale.
Subpar Windows
Perhaps the problem is simply a broken seal, but if the functionality and condition of your window is compromised at all, you should have it repaired or replaced prior to listing your home. This goes for any windows throughout your home, whether they simply seem too ‘windy’ or are in dire need of a replacement pane.
Leaking Tubs
It is extremely common for jet tubs to leak, which can easily go unnoticed by a seller, given that some tubs sit for years between uses. Regardless, the majority of potential buyers will see your leaky tub as an indication of a huge – and expensive – possible future problem; this may be enough to undo any interest they may have in your home. You should be sure to check your tubs and any included features such as jets or faucets before you list your home for sale so you can have time to find the best, and least expensive solution to fix it.
Visible Water Damage
If your home is more than a few years old, it is very possible to find indications of water damage, mold or rotting within its exterior trim. You should inspect the entirety of your home’s exterior, and have any splitting or rotten boards replaced, caulked and repainted. Pay special attention to areas surrounding chimneys, doors, windows and gutters. Refreshing your home’s exterior can also make it look significantly newer.
Wobbly Handrails or Deck Rails
You can be certain that any loose handrails or deck rails around your home, whether they are a safety issue or not, will be noted in your home inspection report. Wobbly handrails and deck rails also indicate to potential buyers that your home hasn’t been adequately maintained.
Dysfunctional Gutters
Gutters that do not work properly can be a huge issue and not to just your potential buyers. If your gutters have not properly channeled water away from your home for quite some time, or if you are not sure how long they have been dysfunctional, you run the risk of considerably damaging your home’s foundation.
Compromised HVAC Systems
Issues with your home’s heating, cooling or ventilation (HVAC) systems can be extremely costly to fix or replace, so it’s important that you have them serviced diligently throughout your time as a homeowner – and especially before you list your home for sale.
While it is completely possible your home inspection can reveal a variety of different issues besides those mentioned here, addressing these fundamental ones before you list your home for sale can significantly lower your risk for future complications to arise. If it’s been more than two years since your last home inspection, it is a good idea to have one done before you list your home.