Recently I came across an article in Coldwell Banker’s blog about 9 overlooked items necessary to prepare your home for sale, by David Marine. I found the list to be very helpful since we often are so focused on the big, cosmetic tasks, that we skip some of the details behind the scenes. Here are some things you should be sure to have done before putting your house on the market:
1. Survey
Keep a current copy of your home’s survey and be sure to give your listing agent a copy, as well. This document will provide important information to buyers, such as property lines, easements, conservation buffers, etc.
2. Floorplan or Appraisal Sketch
Whether deciding on furniture placement or parking space, a floorplan is crucial for a buyer to know property dimensions. It is suggested to have an appraisal sketch done to confirm exact square footage of a home, rather than using tax records.
3. Utility Bills
Review your utility bills to give buyers an average cost for heating and cooling your home. This helps them figure out total costs of owning the home.
4. Termite Bond
A termite bond is a protection plan in the case of a termite infestation. In many markets where termites are common, buyers are interested in knowing the termite bond policy.
5. Pest Control
If your propety requires any type of pest control maintenance, have all of the details ready. Include how much you pay, how often maintenance is done, and who your provider is.
6. Insurance
Buyers are interested in knowing the seller’s current home insurance provider, since sometimes it can be easier for them to go through the same provider, rather than trying to acquire a new one.
7. Product Manuals and Warranty Documents
For any home appliances that will remain in the home, such as water heaters, ceiling fans, refrigerators, etc., have the manuals and warranty information ready.
8. Service Providers
Have a list of all vendors and service providers. The buyer may eventually opt to find their own providers, however they will appreciate having help available initially.
9. Covenants and Restrictions, Neighborhood Rules and Information
This information is very important to new owners. You can find it by contacting your neighborhood association or going to your municipality’s website.
If you really want to go above and beyond as a seller, once you have all this information, store it in handy binder or folder that can be easily passed on to the buyer. While it may seem like a lot to compile, it will be less stressful to do it before putting your home on the market and can even move your sale along faster.
Read the full article here.
Contact me today for help in preparing your home for sale!
Source: Marine, David. “9 Overlooked Items to Prep Your Home for Sale.” Coldwell Banker Blue Matter, 7 Dec. 2017, www.coldwellbanker.com/blog/9-overlooked-items-to-prep-your-home-for-sale/.
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