Size, style and condition of home are where homebuyers start in beginning their search. Once they’ve determined that your home fits their initial criteria, there are certain factors that make or break a homebuyer’s decision:
Major Features should be reasonably updated and working effectively:
- Roof
- Foundation
- Crawl Space
- Central Heating
- Air Conditioning System
- Electrical System
- Plumbing System.
Maintenance of Basics
- Trees and Shrubs trimmed/Bare spots in lawn seeded
- Lawn and Gardens raked
- Windows and Doors weather-proofed
- Gutters cleared
- Downspouts functioning
- Bathtub and Sink caulking not cracked
- Ventilated attics, basements and crawlspaces
- Lawn grading leveled out to prevent water pooling
- Heating and Cooling filters replaced
- Chimneys cleaned and inspected
Details are Important! Little faults can leave a big, bad impression.
- Fix leaky faucets
- Tighten loose doorknobs and railings
- Replace burned out lightbulbs, broken screens, cracked windows
- Patch and repaint gouges in walls
- Glue down peeled wallpaper
- Repair and coat driveway
Safety Precautions that Homebuyers appreciate
- Good quality smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors
- Well-positioned outdoor lighting
- GFCI outlets outdoors and in bathrooms, laundry area
- Clear area around furnace
- Eye appeal is Critical.
- Lawn mowed and gardens clear of weeds
- Windows and siding clean
- Open shades and curtains to allow for maximum interior light
- Clean bathrooms and kitchens
- Uncluttered closets (Yes, they do peak!)
Be prepared with documents. They may ask for a professional home inspection.
It’s only fair, so have various home maintenance records available for roof, plumbing and electrical, HVAC, carpeting, large appliances. It can’t hurt to have a few months of electrical and water bills ready, too.
