Maintaining Your Home's Value When Selling

For homeowners, the upkeep of your property demands a consistent commitment to ongoing maintenance. However, even if you're preparing to sell your home or have already accepted an offer, you can't disregard routine maintenance. Neglecting these responsibilities, especially after vacating your property, can lead to potential issues that may deter buyers and devalue your home. To prevent minor problems from escalating into major, expensive issues, focus on these crucial areas you can't afford to ignore.

• Landscaping and Curb Appeal: Whether you're still residing in the house or not, maintaining your landscaping is essential. Clear dead tree limbs, rake leaves, and tend to flower beds. A well-kept exterior is crucial. If your property is vacant, arrange for regular yard maintenance to prevent overgrowth. Neglecting your yard not only discourages potential buyers but can also attract unwanted attention from vandals. Ensure outdoor lights are on timers and that driveways and walkways are regularly cleared in winter. Don't let mail accumulate in the mailbox.
• Gutter and Roof Maintenance: Neglecting gutters and the roof can lead to a cascade of problems. Overflowing gutters can damage your home's foundation and lead to drainage issues, while a damaged roof can result in water infiltration and damage to ceilings and walls. It's advisable to inspect your roof before listing your home to address any potential issues.
• HVAC Systems: Your heating and cooling systems need regular attention. Have your furnace serviced to avoid a dusty odor during open houses. Clean ductwork and filters and vacuum baseboard heaters if present. Keep the thermostat at 66 degrees Fahrenheit during showings to ensure a comfortable environment for potential buyers and prevent freezing pipes in cold months.
• Chimney Inspection: If your home has a chimney, have it inspected and cleaned to check for cracked flue tiles and gaps in the mortar between the bricks. A well-maintained chimney can prevent costly repairs.
• Pest Prevention: Inspect both the inside and outside of your home for areas that may allow pests to enter. Repair damaged siding and fascia under the roofline promptly. Use wire mesh to cover stove and dryer vents to deter pests from entering your property.
• Window Cleaning: Clean windows are essential year-round when your home is on the market. Dirty windows can mar the showing process and create a negative impression on potential buyers. Pay special attention to cleaning after storms when windows are likely to accumulate grime.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Depending on the time of year you list your home, address tasks that indicate ongoing care. Clear away lawnmowers in the fall, store shovels in the spring, and put away patio furniture during the colder months to avoid sending the message that your home is neglected.

By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you'll not only make it easier to sell your home but also preserve its value and avoid potential issues that could impact your sale. Your dedication to maintaining your property will pay off in a smoother selling process and potentially a more profitable transaction.