Home Sellers Checklist
In addition to being clutter free and camera ready it may be necessary to spend some money fixing any broken items, repainting, servicing items such as the HVAC system etc. The old adage you need to spend a little to make a little has never been truer as it relates to selling your home. A small upfront investment can often result is a significantly higher sales price.
The American Society of Home Inspectors ( ASHI) has identified a list of common problems that frequently appear on buyer's home inspection report. Early correction of these items can increase a homes appeal and reduce the chance of a buyer walking away from the sale due to dissatisfaction with the inspection results.
Major Systems
Once a buyer has identified the house and the Virginia Beach / Hampton Roads community they wish to make their new home the next most critical items are the home's basic structure and mechanical systems. Deficiencies in these areas can result in expensive and timely repairs or replacements.
- Roof Structure and Covering
- Foundation / Crawl Space
- Central Heating and Air Conditioning Systems
- Electrical Systems
- Plumbing Systems
Safety Precautions
Home Inspectors also pay attention to items relating to protecting the home and its occupants from danger.
- Install Smoke Detectors on Each Level
- Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI's) in "wet" areas, such as Kitchen Counter Tops, Bathrooms, and Exterior Outlets
Minor Details
Here are some typical improvements, which may appear on a Home Inspection Report
- Leaky Faucets
- Loose Door Knobs
- Damaged Window Screen
- Broken Panes of Glass
- Loss of Vapor Seal in Windows
- Burned Out Light Bulbs
- Loose Railings
Maintenance Improvements
These improvements are typically easy and inexpensive to make but they may substantially improve a home's appearance, efficiency and comfort. These are suggestion that may appear on a Home Inspection Report.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs Which Touch or Hang Over the House
- Apply New Caulking and Weather Stripping as Needed Around Doors and Windows
- Clean Gutters of Debris / Leaves
- Replace Bathroom Caulk and /or Grouting to Prevent Seepage and Improve Appearance
- Ventilate Crawl Spaces or Install a Dehumidifier to Prevent Excessive Moisture
- Install or Replace Worn Vapor Barrier in Crawl Space
- Replace Dirty Filters in the HVAC System
- Regrade Soil Around Foundation ( as Needed) to Keep Water Away from the House
- Have the Chimneys Professional Cleaned
Prepare For the Buyer's Home Inspection
Having the following documents / house records available in advance will answer many of the questions a potential buyer may have and demonstrates a level of care & concern that buyers appreciate.
- Appliances Receipts - Service Records - Warranties
- Utility Bills - Water, Electric
- Name of Cable/Internet Supplier
- Residential Property Condition Disclosure Statement