It is common for people to live in the same home for a decade or more these days. Things that were in good shape when you moved in might now need to be upgraded or replaced. The most common exterior items are roofs, decks, trim, gutters and downspouts, windows and doors, sidewall shingles and painting. In the mechanical department it is important to stay on top of servicing or replacing the heating and air conditioning systems, the hot water heater, and the appliances. It is also important to make sure you’re your smoke and CO detectors are in compliance with current regulations. Another common issue is shrubs, trees and vines that might have seemed perfect for the space when planted but are now taking over the house. This can cause serious damage and block light.
When listing a property for sale it is important to try to be objective and view the property as potential buyers will. This means taking a step back and making an honest assessment of what needs to be done. It is a good idea to have a home inspection by a professional, not your nephew unless he is licensed, prior to listing. This will objectively inform you of the reality of what a buyer will find out and what needs to be done. We always recommend having the structures as ship shape as possible when preparing to list for sale and it usually costs less to do the work than to make concessions in a negotiation.
The cost of deferred maintenance is higher than dealing with issues as they arise. Waiting for components or buildings to prove their antiquity and inefficacy will always be more expensive than getting out in front of things and keeping everything up to date. We have many helpful resources available if you need advice – please contact your broker for more info!