The Fast Track to a Successful Transaction
Sell Your Home for the Most Money in the Least Amount of Time
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As an experienced real estate sales professional,
I can offer many services to give your home the most exposure to qualified prospective buyers. But in the end, it is almost always the house that sells itself. For that reason, it is important for the client to understand that there is much they can do to facilitate the sale of a property. |
Home Inspection and Appraisal
As a service to my clients I have compiled a checklist of items often found in need of repair during the whole house inspection.
If repairs are needed, plan to do them before the professional inspection is performed. It will ensure a smoother sale and contribute to a positive home inspection experience.
Interior
- Do wall and ceiling surfaces have holes or cracks that need patching?
- Do all windows have operating latches?
- Can all of the windows be opened and closed properly?
- Do any of the windows have cracked panes or broken seals?
- Do windows need caulking?
- Are any of the windows painted shut?
- Are stair railings loose?
- Are moldings loose, broken, or missing?
- Do interior doors stick? They need to open and close smoothly!
- Are kitchen or bathrooms tiles loose or cracked?
- Can you explain the existence or repair of old water penetration stains on walls and ceilings?
- If there is a chimney, does the inside need cleaning and does the mortar need to be repaired? Also, does the damper open and close properly?
- Is there insulation in the attic? If so, does it block any attic vents?
- Are there any signs of insect infestation
Exterior
- Are there horizontal or vertical cracks in the foundation walls?
- Does the grading around the house direct rain water away from the foundation?
- Are any roof shingles loose or missing?
- Are the gutters or down spouts clean and free from debris and weeds?
- Is the exterior wood trim in good condition?
- Are stair or porch railings loose?
- Are the wood or concrete steps in good condition?
- Do any retaining walls or fences need repair?
- Are the sidewalks and driveway in good condition?
Plumbing
- Do the bases of the faucets leak?
- Do the faucets shut off completely, preventing water from dripping?
- Are the faucet and shower heads clear of lime build-up to allow for full water flow?
- Are any drains clogged?
- Do the stopper mechanisms in the sinks and bathtubs open and close properly?
- Is there insulation on the water pipes in unheated areas of the home?
- Is there access to the main water line shut-off valve?
- Are the bathtub and shower enclosures properly caulked?
- Are the toilets loose at the floor or at the tank?
Electrical
- Are any receptacles, switches, or their covers broken or missing?
- Are all receptacles "hot" and switches operable?
- Do any fluorescent, cosmetic, or other kinds of light bulbs need replacing?
- Do the ceiling fans work properly?
- Do the reset buttons of GFCI receptacles pop out when the test button is pressed?
- Do front and back doorbells work?
- Is the main electrical service wire entering the house secured to the exterior?
- Do the electrical junction boxes have covers?
- Do smoke alarms function when the test button is pressed?
- Does the built-in microwave work?
- Do all of the electrical range top burners and ovens work?
- Does the kitchen exhaust fan work?
Depending on the type of property, there are many other steps a homeowner can take to help ensure a smooth sale. But the above checklist is a great start!