Make Home Repairs Before the First Showing

Most home sellers are aware that there’s a lot of competition on the market right now. And, most buyer’s know they have a lot of choices. So, what can a home owner do to get an edge?

Try this: Have your home inspected and all repairs made prior to putting it on the market. If your home is already in great condition, the cost will be minimal. If your home needs a lot of work, you would probably have to make the repairs anyway or discount the price to engage the buyer. A pre-inspected home in good repair could pay off with a higher asking price and quicker sale.

Believe it or not, when a buyer has two comparable homes that meet his needs and desires, the home that doesn’t need any work will probably win out. After all, who wants to move into a new house and have to fix a broken window or repair the cracked toilet?

Keep the report handy to show potential buyers what has already been done. Chances are they’ll still get their own home inspection, but knowing in advance the home has been “cleared” makes it easier to make a fair offer and more difficult to make a low-ball “this-home-needs-a-lot-of-work” offer.