JUST A LITTLE PREPARATION WILL
INDICATE A WELL MAINTAINED HOME.
These items can be taken care of for little or no cost. This information applies to buyers and sellers (things to look for or repair).
· Provide clear access to the attic, crawlspace, heat/AC systems, water heater, appliances, garage and all other areas that require inspection. This is important because inspectors are not required to move personal items, furniture, equipment, etc.
· Keep grade or mulch six to eight inches from contact with siding.
· Clean gutters and remove debris from the roof.
· Divert all water away from house, i.e. downspouts, sump pump, condensation drains, etc. Grade should slope away from structure. Clean out basement entry drains.
· Trim trees and bushes back from house and clean any staining.
· Paint and caulk all weathered exterior wood.
· Seal asphalt driveways if cracking.
· Clean or replace heating/AC filters.
· Test all smoke detectors.
· Clean chimney, fireplace, or wood stove (if professionally cleaned provide a copy for buyer).
· Put all windows and doors in proper operating condition, replace cracked windows.
· Check sump pump for proper operation.
· Replace any burned out light bulbs.
· Remove wood from contact with house.
· Install/check vapor barrier in crawlspace.
· Caulk all exterior wall penetrations.
· Caulk along tub/floor, tub/walls, tub/shower glass doors.
· Anticipate the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer being operated if they convey with home.
· Be prepared for questions such as: how old is the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer. dryer, A/C or heat pump, furnace (air handler), roof, windows, etc.
