Helpful Information

Buying Tips                                Selling Tips                                School Reports

Buying Tips

New home or not so new, it pays to know what to look for regarding its structure, equipment and surroundings. Though a final assessment can be made by an inspection service company, this checklist can serve as a reminder of what you should look for - in order to make a wise buying decision.

• Foundation. Check floors and walls for evidence of water seepage or moisture problems. Minor settling cracks not structurally significant.

• Drainage. Sump pump for foundation draining. Crawl space dry.

• Termite and wood rot. May require inspection from qualified exterminator for existing and potential problems.

• Floors. Condition of flooring, whether plank or plywood. Solid construction of bridging and joists.

• Walls. Condition of walls, whether drywall or plaster. Absence of water marks.

• Attic. Sufficiently insulated and ventilated.

• Fireplace. Damper in working order, flues to chimney clear.

• Heating. Oil fan motor, lubricate bearings, clean humidifier, replace filters, etc.

• Hot water system. Type and gallon capacity. How long present unit in service (if older home).

• Electrical. Standard house current, number of circuits, outlets and circuit breakers sufficient for everyday needs. Condition of wiring.

• Plumbing. Good water pressure throughout house. Tie-in to local water supply and sewage disposal system. Pipe joints clean and rust-free.

• Appliances and fixtures. Range, refrigerator, dishwasher/disposal, laundry facilities, etc. all in working order. Accommodation for gas grill hook-up. Bathroom and kitchen fixtures in good shape.

• Lot and landscaping. Grading level or properly contoured. Trees and shrubs sufficient for needs. Fences, walks, patio and driveway in good condition.

• Exterior walls. Type suitable to weather conditions, need for any periodic maintenance (painting).

• Doors and windows. Easy to open and close (or replace) for storm/screen removal or installation.

• Roof. Gutters and downspouts in good condition. If older home, how long have shingles been in use? (Normal 20-25 year life-span.) Chimney flashing tightly caulked.

• Garage. Doors or opener in good working order. Sufficient electrical and heating access.

Seller Tips

There are a number of steps to selling any house. Experience has taught us that every home sale is unique. Yet every sale — from putting the house on the market to settlement day — shares a common process.

• First impressions are lasting. The front door greets the prospect. Make sure it is fresh, clean and scrubbed looking. Keep lawn trimmed and edged, and the yard free of refuse.

• Decorate for a quick sale. Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce appeal. Why try to tell the prospect how your home could look, when you can show him by redecorating? A quicker sale at a higher price will result. An investment in new kitchen wallpaper will pay dividends.

• Let the sun shine in. Open draperies and curtains and let the prospect see how cheerful your home can be. (Dark rooms do not appeal).

• Fix that faucet! Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing.

• Repairs can make a big difference. Loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and other minor flaws detract from value. Have them fixed.

• From top to bottom. Display the full value of your attic and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles.

• Safety first. Keep stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearance and possible injuries.

• Make closets look bigger. Neat, well-ordered closets show that space is ample.

• Bathrooms help sell homes. Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle.

• Arrange bedrooms neatly. Remove excess furniture. Use attractive bedspreads and freshly laundered curtains.

• Can you see the light? Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel a glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection.

• Three's a crowd. Avoid having too many people present. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house.

• Music is mellow. But not when showing a house. Turn off blaring radio and television. Let the salesman and buyer talk, free of disturbances.

• Pets underfoot? Keep them out of the way- preferably out of the house.

• Silence is golden. Be courteous but don't force conversation with the potential buyer. He wants to inspect your house - not pay a social call.

• Be it ever so humble. Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained salesman answer any objections. This is his job.

• In the background. The salesman knows the buyer's requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don't tag along. You will be called if needed.

• Why put the cart before the horse? Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to the potential buyer before he has purchased the house often loses a sale.

• A word for the wise. Let your Realtor discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the customer. He is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

• Use your agent. Show your home to prospective customers only by appointment through your agent. Your cooperation will be appreciated and will close the sale more quickly.

School Reports