Suzanne Plewes, RE/MAX Alliance in Loveland
Home sellers often think that receiving an offer is the most important milestone in the home selling process. The reality is, there are several critical milestones that must be reached before reaching the closing table. One early milestone is the home inspection. To avoid scaring buyers away, it is important to identify and address certain issues beforehand. After all, knowing that inspection issues were the cause of a deal falling through could deter future potential buyers, so it’s best to avoid the situation altogether. Below are several issues that often scare away buyers.
Plumbing leaks
Plumbing leaks are not uncommon, but they can be scary. Most buyers imagine the need for a major plumbing repair or assume that mold and other damages may exist behind walls and under floors. If you’ve had any plumbing leaks, no matter how minor, be sure to have them properly repaired. It is also important to repair any damages to ceilings, walls and floors. Leaving glaring signs of past issues can be detrimental to your home sale.
Wood destroying insects
Signs of wood destroying insects is another issue that can quickly scare away potential buyers. First and foremost, if you are aware of any infestations, be sure to get the problem treated. There’s nothing worse to a buyer than to hear that there’s an active issue. Secondly, repair any damaged areas. Lastly, put preventative measures in place to minimize the chances of the problem recurring (i.e. subscribe to a treatment plan). Most buyers will overlook a past infestation if it’s clear that the problems have been properly and professionally addressed.
Structural problems
Home buyers always associate structural issues with high repair costs. However, structural concerns can vary from very minor to major. Hearing that a repair was improperly performed is sometimes just as bad to a buyer as learning that there is an issue to begin with. Therefore, when adding support columns, repairing support beams, or performing other similar work on the structure of your home, be sure to hire a professional, obtain proper permits, and comply with modern building standards.
Avoiding inspection issues
Issues with a home will not always cause a deal to fall through. It is often the appearance of a homeowner having ignored known issues that scare buyers most as it eludes to a bigger or growing problem. By addressing items ahead of time, sellers can improve their chances for a successful sale and a higher
selling price.
If you’re thinking of selling your home, working with an experienced real estate agent is important. Your agent can help evaluate your home, recommend improvements, and assist with negotiations throughout the selling process.
By Suzanne Plewes, RE/MAX Alliance in Loveland. Suzanne Plewes is a broker associate at RE/MAX Alliance in Loveland. Write to 750 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland, CO 80537, call 970.290.0373 or e-mail [email protected].
