Before you put your house up for sale, it’s important to be in a fit state for viewings and inspections. Not only will this increase your chances of securing a swift sale, but will also help you sell your property at the best price. Purchasing a property is a sizable investment for any buyer, so it pays to make sure there are no major maintenance or structural issues which will require costly repairs in the future. In this article, we will outline some of the important areas in your home to prepare before opening your doors to the viewing public.
Ceilings and Walls
Check the ceilings and walls in your home for any signs of leaks or water damage. This is often indicated by stains or discoloration as well as bubbling, peeling or flaking paint or wallpaper. Mold, mildew or damp and musty odors are also signs of water damage that will need to be repaired before your home is listed.
Inspect your walls for any cracks, holes, scuff marks, and stains. If these are superficial, they can easily be filled and painted over with a neutral color of paint such as white, beige, taupe or gray, creating a blank canvas for a new buyer to add to.
Roofing
Depending on its material, the average lifespan of a roof is between 25 to 50 years. As a roof is integral to the structure and sheltering ability of the property, it is essential that it is in good condition. There are many factors that can cause damage to your roof and compromise its integrity such as adverse weather conditions, debris, untreated moss or fungus and fallen tree branches. Before putting your home on the market, check your roof for the following issues:
- Loose, missing or damaged tiles
- Moss or lichen which can signal decay beneath the roof
- Buckled, curling, or blistering shingles
- Dirt or debris in the gutters
- Damage to chimney, gutters or flashing
Roofing repairs should be carried out by professionals such as these Redmond Washington roofing experts rather than tackled alone.
Plumbing
Replace the washers in any leaky faucets and check the hot and cold water runs from each faucet as it should. All drains should be free and clear of obstructions in sinks, showers and bathtubs and fixtures such as showerheads should work correctly.
Worn flapper valves or washer bolts in the toilets may need replacing if there are leaks or the water is not draining correctly from the tank. Check that the radiators heat up fully, and there are no strange gurgling or creaking sounds which may be an indication of leaks, blockages from sludge or debris, or trapped air preventing the warm water from fully circulating inside.
Electrics
Check all light fittings and electrical outlets in your home are in good working order and that there are no sparking, buzzing or flickering lights or appliances. Reset tripped switches in your fuse box and rewire faulty light switches. Old properties with dated electrical systems can become overloaded and may even pose hazards such as fires or electrocution. If this is the case, you may need to install a new breaker panel that will distribute electricity safely through the property.
These are just some of the areas to focus on before selling your home.