Buyer/Seller Guides

Buyer 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. Type of plant...minor periodic maintenance required - 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 rustfree.
• 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

Make sure you’ve done everything you can - inside and out - to make your home as attractive as possible in the eyes of the buyer. First impressions last. And homes that look their best tend to sell faster and command every dollar they’re worth. Use this checklist when preparing and showing your home for sale.

• A fresh coat of paint for home, garage, even fences - may be the one improvement that creates the most positive first impression.
• Lawn trimmed, clear of debris.
• Gutters sealed and downspouts clean.
• Tidy front entrance. Door brass polished, worn trim or rusty mail box painted.
• Storms and screens cleaned. New doormat put out. If possible, keep front curbside free of parked cars.
• Painting inside walls can pay dividends far beyond the time, effort and expense involved.
• Tend to "little things" - oil squeaking doors, tighten loose cabinet knobs, take out removable stains, replace damaged floor tiles.
• All windows, doors and drawers should open and close easily. Fasten loose tread plates, clean soiled carpeting.
• The kitchen is the one place in the home that buyers look at closely. Tighten leaky faucets, repair faulty wall switches, outlets, light fixtures and any appliances that will "go with the home."
• The bathroom gets close scrutiny too. Keep it spotless. Tiles scrubbed and grouted, faucets polished, toiletries and medicines in their chest. Laundry items in a closed hamper.
• Cleaned windows and clear, uncluttered closets and basement contribute to a more attractive home.
• Clear out accumulated items from closets, cabinets and under counters - also from the garage. Consider holding a garage sale prior to showing your home.