Don’t Neglect These 6 Maintenance Tasks When Selling Your Home

When selling your home, it's critical that you present it in the best possible condition. Buyers will be turned off by even small issues like a leaking faucet or overgrown shrubbery. They may wonder what larger problems the house may have. In addition, neglecting to keep up with the care of your home could actually lead to further damage that could make selling your property nearly impossible. To be sure your home appeals to buyers and sells promptly, don't neglect these six maintenance tasks.

1. Upkeep the Landscape

Well-kept landscaping and walkways invite guests, and potential buyers, into your home. It's important to stay on top of things like raking leaves, watering flowers, mowing the grass, and sweeping walkways. If you're no longer living on the property, hire someone to handle these tasks.

2. Maintain Gutters and Roof

Clogged gutters and roof damage can go undetected until it's too late. You don't want prospective homebuyers to see overflowing gutters or interior leaks, so it's best to take care of any cleaning and repair issues before listing your property. Not only are such things unsightly, but they also have the potential to lead to serious and expensive damage.

3. Service Heating Systems

Professional HVAC servicing involves cleaning filters, clearing ductwork, and inspecting for potential problems. You'll want to have this done prior to putting your home on the market so that you can address issues. In addition, be sure you've tested the furnace before your first walk-through or open house. Otherwise, you could end up with a dusty, smelly mess.

4. Critter Proof

An often-overlooked step any real estate agent in Dallas will remind you of is to be sure there are no holes or crevices that animals or birds could sneak through. You don't want any surprise visitors when showing your home. Cover vents with mesh and patch up any holes in the siding that could provide entry.

5. Clean the Windows

Smudged, cloudy, or grimy windows are a real turnoff to buyers. You'll want to have them cleaned in order to send a welcoming and inviting vibe. Be sure to inspect your windows after a storm for any mud residue as well.

6. Address Seasonal Tasks

If you're no longer living on the property, you'll want to remember to take care of seasonal maintenance tasks. Things like putting away the patio furniture before winter arrives or stowing shovels after the last snow is important. Neglecting these things tells visitors you're not interested in maintaining the property and demonstrates a lack of care.

Staying on top of these maintenance tasks will give buyers a favorable impression of your home, leading to a faster sale. It also has the potential to save you money in repairs as well as maintain the home's value.