before issuing a loan to a buyer. If major problems, like a leaking roof or outdated electrical wiring, exist, you may want to repair those before putting your home on the market, or expect to give concessions to the buyer.
STARTING WITH THE BASICS
Every listed home should meet the basic expectations of any buyer. It should have a sound roof, functioning gutters and downspouts, foundation without cracks, functioning heating and/or air-conditioning system, solid subflooring, and safe and secure electrical wiring. With a home inspection, any shortcomings may be requested to be remedied to get the buyer to proceed, and (depending on the issue) to obtain financing approval. It is important to understand that the market value of a home is determined by the prices of comparable homes recently sold in the area. Extensive remodeling to sell the home or to increase the value may not pay off. The property needs to be up to the standards of neighboring homes, so while the kitchen has to be comparable to others, over spending to remodel a kitchen with amenities and finishes well above those typically found in the neighborhood will usually not support the increase in value. While it may be a helpful selling feature, it won’t return dollar- for-dollar value.
MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE IS A MUST
It is easy to get wrapped up in the more eye-pleasing aspects of preparing a home to sell. However, the upkeep of all the more mundane aspects of the home cannot be overlooked.
These mechanical features require consideration:
• Electrical boxes and wiring
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