Do Homework Prior to Listing Your Home

This is not about cleaning out your garage which  you have been putting off for months or years.  You have heard it said that the best way of getting  the closets, attic and  garage cleaned out is to move.  Good advice but do it before you list the  house for sale.

Two of the biggest hurdles in the selling process are getting through the option period(inspections) and the buyer’s final loan approval.  You can’t do much about the latter but you can save yourself a lot of headaches getting ready for the inspections.  Moreover, if you follow some of the following guidelines, your  home may just show better  and  may translate into an early contract offer.

If money is no object, I would recommend that you have your home inspected prior to listing it.  Follow up with any repairs or maintenance issues and then list the house.  A savvy Realtor will advise this or some of the following steps if money is an object.  Here are 5 common defects that an inspector may uncover and cause a potential deal breaker.

1. Improper electrical wiring.  The problem here is caused by the home owner or an unqualified contractor.  Typical problems are inadequate overload protection, exposed wires tied together but not housed in a box.  Check your file for permits from the city.
2. Roof deterioration. Old or damaged shingles can led to leaks.  Easy and inexpensive repairs can stave off costly fixes.  Use binoculars and be sure to cut back tree limbs growing near the roof.
3. Improper surface grading or drainage.  When it rains, the water must flow away from the house. Check  gutters and downspouts.
4. Plumbing problems. Rocking toilets can be easily fixed by tightening the bolts to the floor.  Leaky faucets can be fixed with a 50 cent seal.  Check sinks and hose bibs for leaks.
5. Poor overall upkeep.  Tell tale signs are cracked, peeling painted surfaces and broken appliances.  Replacing decayed caulking around doors and windows is something even I can do.  Spend an  hour once a year with a friend or neighbor and walk around your home  with pad and pencil.

A home seller can avoid all the apprehension about a repair addendum to the contract during the option period by following these guidelines.  Yes, contracts  do indeed go away because of costly  repair surprises.  I have personally witnessed 3 deals go south on me during the past 5 years.

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