5 Commonly Overlooked Items When Selling Your Home

Selling your home is a significant step and one of large financial consequences. Of course, you want to maximize your profit to allow you to achieve your future goals. You are aware that you need to make sure the home is in good condition and has “curb appeal,” but there are some commonly overlooked items to address before you list.   5 Commonly Overlooked Items   1. Light Fixtures and Bulbs – Burned-out bulbs or non-functioning outlets and fixtures can negatively impact a buyer’s perception of your home. Be sure all of your lightbulbs are the same color light - soft, not harsh.   2. HVAC System – Before you list, have your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system serviced. Change the filters and ensure all is in good working condition.   3. Plumbing – Slow drains or running toilets are red flags for buyers. Snake your drains and replace old fixtures. Check for leaks and make any needed repairs before buyers notice issues.   4. Paint Touch-Ups – Most of the time a full repaint is not necessary but review high-traffic areas for signs of wear and tear. If possible, touch-up walls, banisters, and other areas where fingerprints or dirt is present.   5. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Replace batteries and test all sensors. Not only is this important to buyers, but properly functioning detectors are important safety features for you and your family as well.   Bonus Item:  Make sure your windows and doors are clean.  Buyers notice the details, and these are often overlooked.  Let them see your home shine!   These items will be essential elements of the home inspection once you have a contract with a potential buyer. They may notice during the home visit, but by addressing them upfront, you avoid the questions during the inspection period and reassure your buyers that the home has been cared for and is in good condition.   When you're ready to sell your home, be sure to contact Brad Bemowski with Homcentric® Real Estate, powered by Property Executives Realty.  Your partner for exceptional service and results in Western Wisconsin and the Twin Cities.

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Don't Let Your Home Rest on Uneven Ground: The Benefits of Crawl Space Encapsulation

Don't Let Your Home Rest on Uneven Ground: The Benefits of Crawl Space Encapsulation As homeowners, we take pride in our abodes. We want them to be comfortable, healthy, and efficient. But what about what lies beneath our feet? Many homes are built with full or partial crawl spaces – those often-forgotten areas that can have a big impact on the overall well-being of your house. Here's the truth: an exposed crawl space can be a breeding ground for trouble. Moisture, pests, and allergens can all thrive in this dark, damp environment. But there's a solution: crawl space encapsulation. Encapsulating Your Crawl Space: A Wise Investment Crawl space encapsulation is the process of sealing the crawl space from the elements. This is typically done by installing a vapor barrier on the floor and walls, and then adding insulation. The result? A dry, clean, and healthy space that benefits your home in several ways: Improved Energy Efficiency: An unsealed crawl space allows conditioned air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. Encapsulation keeps the warm air in during winter and the cool air in during summer, leading to lower energy bills. Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: Moisture in the crawl space can lead to mold growth, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. Encapsulation creates a healthier living environment for you and your family. Reduced Risk of Foundation Problems: Moisture can also wreak havoc on your foundation. Encapsulation helps prevent cracks and other damage, saving you money on costly repairs down the road. Increased Value: Homebuyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient and healthy homes. Encapsulating your crawl space can be a selling point, potentially boosting your home's value. Is Encapsulation Right for You? If your home has a crawl space, encapsulation is definitely worth considering. Here are some signs that it might be especially beneficial: You notice musty odors in your home. You see signs of moisture damage, such as mold or mildew growth. You have high humidity levels in your home. You have frequent pest problems. Your energy bills are higher than expected. Taking the Next Step If you're interested in learning more about crawl space encapsulation, consult with a qualified foundation repair or crawl space specialist. They can assess your specific needs and provide you with a free quote. Remember, a healthy crawl space leads to a healthy home. Don't let your investment rest on shaky ground – consider crawl space encapsulation for a happier, healthier, and more valuable home.

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Why a Home Inspection is Your Secret Weapon

Congratulations! You've found your dream home – a charming fixer-upper, a sprawling suburban oasis, or a cozy city condo. But before you clink champagne glasses and celebrate your offer getting accepted, there's one crucial step: the home inspection. Think of a home inspection as an X-ray for your potential property. A qualified inspector will meticulously examine the structure, systems, and components of the home, revealing underlying issues you might miss with the naked eye. While it might seem like an extra cost, a home inspection is actually an investment in your peace of mind and future savings. Here's why: 1. Unearthing Hidden Problems: Homes, especially older ones, can harbor unseen problems. A leaky roof, faulty wiring, or a lurking animal infestation – these are just a few examples of issues an inspection can uncover. Knowing about these problems upfront allows you to make informed decisions. 2. Renegotiation Power: If the inspection reveals significant issues, you may have the leverage to negotiate repairs with the seller or potentially walk away from the deal altogether. This can save you a ton of money down the road on expensive repairs. 3. Budgeting for the Future: The inspection report will give you a roadmap for future maintenance needs. Knowing about potential replacements or upgrades allows you to factor those costs into your overall budget. 4. Peace of Mind: There's no worse feeling than settling into your new home only to discover a major issue you could have avoided. A home inspection provides peace of mind, knowing you're not inheriting a money pit. 5. Sometimes, it's a Good Surprise! An inspection can also be a positive experience. If the report reveals the home is in excellent condition, it strengthens your offer and assures you're making a sound investment. Remember, a home inspection is an objective assessment. Don't be afraid to ask the inspector questions and clarify anything in the report. This knowledge empowers you to move forward confidently, avoiding unexpected surprises and setting yourself up for a successful homeownership journey. Thinking about buying a home? Talk to your Realtor® (me) about including a home inspection contingency in your offer. It's a small step that can make a big difference!

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