Val Puddington, Coldwell BankerHappy Homebuyers

Why you should keep your property in good condition

June 23rd, 2008 | Maintenance | permalink

In this current real estate environment with a large inventory on the market, Buyers can afford to be choosy and they are being choosy.  It truly is a Buyer’s market.  Buyer’s expect the properties to be in excellent condition and are not settling for anything less. If there is the slightest issue with a property, they are commanding repair, replacement or a large credit.  If Sellers refuse to accommodate, they are simply walking away and going to another property.

Sellers are reluctant to make any improvements or upgrades because they feel their property values are depreciating.  This is very true, property values are depreciating.  Yet if you allow your property condition to deteriorate in the slightest degree, you are adding to the depreciation.

Contractors will tell you that if you need work completed at your home, complete it now before the condition becomes larger and the expense involved become much greater.

Preventive maintenance should include the following:

  1. Replace your heating/air conditioning filters monthly.
  2. Clean out your gutters in the Spring and the Fall.
  3. Run the  toilet, sink and tub/shower in all bathrooms if you have multiple bathrooms.
  4. Run the Jacuzzi tub at least once a month.
  5. Drain the water from the bottom of the hot water tank at least once every six month to avoid rust corrosion.
  6. Clean your windows at least once a year.  Check to make certain there are no leaks around the sills.
  7. Check the outside of the house around windows, window sills, gutters, etc. to ensure that the paint is still in good condition and there is not rotting. Replace rotting wood, touch up and repaint as necessary.  You should repaint the outside trim at least once every couple years.
  8. Shampoo the carpet at least once per year.  Replace carpet as necessary.
  9. Check the walls inside to ensure there are no marks, touch up as necessary. 
  10. Ensure that trees are not overhanging the roof.  They will damage the roof.
  11. Inspect the attic and basement after heavy rains to ensure that there are not leaks.  If there are leaks, address and resolve immediately.      
  12. Check all sinks every month to ensure that there are no leaks.      
  13. Get your furnace/AC inspected yearly and resolve any and all issues.

Doing these simply steps will save you lots of time, energy and money over the long run and will help you to preserve the value of one of your home.