Maintaining your home is crucial, even when you’re not planning to sell it. Consistent home maintenance is vital for preserving your home’s worth and preventing unexpected financial burdens. Here are some helpful tips to be mindful of.
- HVAC Maintenance: Have your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system serviced annually. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking for leaks, and ensuring it operates efficiently. Even if you have an older unit, a well-maintained HVAC system can be a selling point. Estimated at $100 – $300 annually.
- Roof Inspection: Inspect your roof for any signs of damage or wear, such as missing shingles or leaks. Address any issues promptly to avoid costly repairs down the road. Estimated at $200 – $500 for a professional inspection.
- Gutter Cleaning: Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage to your home’s foundation. Usually necessary a few times a year depending on how many trees are within close proximity! Estimated at $100 – $200 per cleaning, depending on the size of your home.
- Pest Control: Schedule annual pest inspections and treatments if necessary. Termites, rodents, and other pests can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked. Estimated at $100 – $300 per year for inspections and treatments.
- Exterior Painting and Repairs: Inspect your home’s exterior for peeling paint, cracks, or other signs of wear. Touch up or repaint as needed and repair any damaged siding, trim, or stucco. Varies significantly based on the extent of work needed, but it can range from $500 for touch-ups to several thousand dollars for a full exterior repaint. Did you know, if a buyer has a VA loan, it could be delayed due to chipping paint.
- Landscaping: Maintain your landscaping, including mowing the lawn, trimming trees and shrubs, and addressing any weed or pest issues. Curb appeal is crucial when selling a home. Cost varies widely depending on the size and complexity of your landscaping needs, but regular maintenance may range from $100 – $500 per month.
- Plumbing Inspection: Check for leaks and drips in faucets, pipes, and toilets. Address any plumbing issues promptly to prevent water damage and mold growth. $100 – $200 for an inspection, plus the cost of any necessary repairs.
- Electrical Inspection: Have an electrician inspect your electrical system and address any safety concerns. Ensure all outlets and switches are functioning correctly. $100 – $300 for an inspection, plus repair costs if needed.
- Appliance Maintenance: Service your appliances annually to keep them running efficiently. This includes your refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, and HVAC appliances. Approximately $100 – $300 per appliance for annual servicing.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test and replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. According to the sales contract smoke detectors 10 years or older must be replaced!
- Water Heater Maintenance: Drain and flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can affect its efficiency and lifespan. $75 – $150 for a professional flush and maintenance.
- Septic System Inspection: If you have a septic system, schedule regular inspections and pump-outs as needed. $200 – $500 for a professional inspection, with pump-outs costing additional fees.
- Window and Door Maintenance: Check for drafts, broken seals, or damaged weather stripping. Repair or replace as necessary to improve energy efficiency. It is approximately $600 – $1,000 to replace a window including labor and materials.
- Crawl Space and Attic Inspections: Inspect these areas for signs of moisture, pests, or insulation issues. Address any problems discovered to prevent structural damage.
- General Deep Cleaning: Conduct a thorough cleaning of your home, including carpets, blinds, and curtains. A clean home is more appealing to potential buyers. Costs vary based on the size of your home and the level of cleaning needed, but it may range from $200 – $500 or more.
By staying on top of these home tasks, you can maintain your home’s condition, increase its market value, and reduce the likelihood of major repair surprises when you decide to sell. Regular maintenance also shows potential buyers that your home has been well-cared for, which can make it more attractive in the real estate market.