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5 things to do before you list your home

The Cape Cod real estate market has heated back up this fall as many second home owners list their homes after the beach season.  Here is our list of 5 things to do before you list your home.

Fix Those Long Overdue Punch-list Items

 We always come back to this because it can't be emphasized enough.  Little repairs go a long way.  Replace sprung window sashes, plane doors that are sticking, fix locks that don't quite work correctly (here is a lock mid-adjustment in a settling home).  There is a reason why you haven't done these things yourself (that reminds me, I need to fix that sticking door!) so imagine how nice it would be as a buyer to walk into a potential home with minimal punch-list items!  These small repairs can often payback in dividends and ease of negotiation further down the road.

Have your Septic Inspected and Serviced

It has to happen to convey a property so getting it done up front is a big help.  Also buyers are keen on hearing the words "Title V in hand" when walking in to see your home. Besides, it is best to be prepared and address an issue with the septic prior to being a hitch during negotiations.

Have Your Chimney Cleaned and Gas Fireplaces Serviced

We could tell you horror stories about sellers waiting until the final walk-through to light a pilot or test a gas insert.  Needless to say it all end with more anxiety and cost for the seller than needed.  Even if you never use a wood-fire chimney you should get it inspected (and cleaned if needed) to reassure potential buyers of the status of this potentially costly feature.

Get a Pest Inspection

Just because you have never seen anything yourself doesn't mean that a home inspector won't find evidence of termites, mice or other pests.  By having an inspection done before listing property the savvy seller will be able to address any problems before they become a negotiating hangup further down the road.

Service the Heating and Air Conditioning Systems

Too often we overlook little problems in these systems in our own homes, but buyers are enticed when major components like heating and cooling just work, full stop.  An older system with a recent inspection can reassure a buyer enough to make an offer and demonstrates that other parts of the home are likely in good order too.

So what are you waiting for?  Go and get your home ready to sell, or, do these things anyway and rest easy in the knowledge that your home is in excellent working order and you'll be able to enjoy it for many years to come.  If you are thinking of selling contact us today for a conversation about how your home may perform in today's market and for help finding excellent local vendors who can help you with these five items.

 

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  1. LINDA on

    I’ve learned that I can rely on your posts for timely , relevant, USEFUL information with practical applications. Very cool. Thank you.