Now Is the Time for Preventative Steps that Will Save You $$!

Whether you’re thinking of selling now, within the next few months, or even next year, professional maintenance of your home does matter and will save you time and money when you are ready to sell.

Fireplaces, pools, hot tubs, central air and heating systems are notable areas you should consider having serviced seasonally, cleaned and professionally opened/closed before selling. Hire reputable, professional companies for these services. Your receipts will indicate the systems were tested and functioning at the time of opening/closing, and recently serviced.

When selling during the fall-winter months, seasonal amenities such as pools, hot tubs and air conditioning can’t be tested or opened at the time of home inspection due to cold temperatures. Monies potentially can be held in escrow at your closing to ensure the system(s) is working. If it can’t be tested or opened until the weather warms up, it can delay or cost you money receiving your net balance at closing. However, providing servicing records and receipts for the professional opening/closing of pools, hot tubs and air conditioning systems will help allay buyer concerns at time of home inspection and contract.

In addition, it’s good to get a head start on organizing repair and maintenance records for other areas of your home. If you have septic, when was the last time it was pumped? Again, have receipts for proof of maintaining the system. Was your roof, furnace or central air serviced or recently replaced? Having a record of when the work was done as well as a copy of any warranties will promote value to your home.

Another way to be helpful to potential buyers who will be the next owner is to gather the instruction manuals for the appliances and mechanical/electrical systems in the house and keep them together in a file or binder. New owners of your home will value these materials providing a wealth of information on these mechanicals when they need instructions or have to troubleshoot year, make and model.

Taking the time now for preventative steps will offer prospective buyers peace of mind – and will save you time and money!!