A to Z Home Inspections

Entering the Illinois real estate market can be an exciting but daunting experience. From real estate agents to inspectors, repairs, and more, it may be difficult to know where to even start. There are a checklist of things to get done, and if you execute them properly, you and your loved ones will make the most of this opportunity.

How to Prepare for a Home Sale

Declutter

One of the most influential factors that can drastically impact your home's marketability is space. Even if your home is relatively clean, there is a lot you can do to maximize your space and showcase what buyers will have to work with. Decluttering could including gathering things to donate, building an inventory for a garage sale (not in front of the home you're selling, of course), and more.

Approaching the decluttering process like a minimalist. The less clutter and distractions there are in your home, the more potential buyers can marvel at the space that they could eventually enjoy for themselves. Aside from the condition of the home and what potential repairs their may be, copious amounts of space is what separates homes from one another.

Invest in a Home Inspection

While many sellers tend to opt out of an inspection if they can, investing in one drastically improve your selling odds. Not only will you have a detail, in-depth description of your home's overall health and condition, but potential buyers will as well. Buyers will be confident in what they're looking at, instead of wondering what scares and surprises may be covered up. In a world where home inspections are avoided if possible, having your reports on-hand could make your property the ideal option.

A to Z inspectors in Elgin, IL can take a look at your property and take note of any issues that could have an impact on safety, comfort, compliance, and more. Our inspectors and reports will equip you with the knowledge you need to invest in repairs so your home is in the best condition possible.

Be sure to review the report

When you receive the report, be sure to go over it with your real estate agent. Winning in the real estate market is a strategic endeavor, and your real estate agent will know how to best allocate your money. Invest in repairs can effectively improve your home's value, but the report is a valuable tool to make sure you make the most of the opportunity.

Repair and Upgrade

After your inspection is completed and you consult your agent, it will be time to invest in the features that will benefit your selling odds. Most of the home's critical features are the ones that have the best ROI. While many homeowners make the mistake of changing up things that aren't an issue or won't influence value, an inspection will make sure your money is well-spent.

Common repairs and upgrades tend to involve:

• HVAC systems
• Furnaces
• Water heaters
• Electrical systems
• Roof issues
• Foundation problems

The Roof

Of all the features that get a lot of attention in the home, the roof is definitely one of the most heavily scrutinized. It quite literally is the bow on top, and any issues could take a very strong listing to an unattractive candidate almost instantly. Any leaks, damaged shingles, dents, or other weaknesses will need to be addressed before a home will become marketable.

A to Z inspectors pay very close attention to the roof and are keen to discover any issues. Depending on the condition, we can usually estimate roughly how much longer the roof can go before it will need to be replaced. Depending on how much time it has left, potential buyers may want to take that future cost into account, and adjust their offer accordingly.

Repaint

Paint is a feature that could be easily forgotten. It is a relatively inexpensive feature that could have a major impact on your home's overall appeal.

After years or decades of use, scuffs, stains, and scratches, a new paint job is a simple way to rejuvenate your interior. Any scuffs or scratches could distract any buyers, and they'll be worried about making sure to take care of those issues if they decide to buy. A fresh coat of paint with a fairly neutral color gives potential buyers the opportunity to let their mind wander and envision their lives in your home.

Pay Attention to Exterior Features

First impressions can make or break a sale. Naturally, the exterior of the home is the first taste a buyer will get of what you have to offer. To make the most of your opportunity, it's important to make sure you maximize curb appeal. This obviously includes investing in repairs for important features such as the roof, gutters, and siding.

However, repairs aren't the only investment you can make. Again, first impressions are everything, and there are a variety of ways you can make your home truly pop. While you could invest hundreds or thousands or a landscaper, there are more cost-effective ways to showcase curb appeal. Some of the best ways to improve your exterior features on a budget include power washing, trimming and edging, cleaning the gutters, upgrading exterior lights, etc.

Clean (Especially Carpets)

Last but certainly not least, a deep clean is a great way to get rid of any lingering odors, stains, or issues that may still be in your home. Due to an effect called olfactory adaptation, there could be smells that your nose can't detect because it has grown accustomed to it. In other words, the living space may smell fine to you because you've lived in it for years, while it may break for visitors. No matter how clean you are, investing in a deep clean is a wise investment.

One of the most common features that need a deep clean is the carpet. No matter how much you keep up with it, carpets will eventually begin to develop an odor. Getting them deep cleaned will add that "new house smell" and help set the tone for every showing.

Get an A to Z Home Inspection Today

Putting a property up for sale can be exciting and stressful all at once. It can be difficult to know where to start, but with the help of a home inspection and proper maintenance, you and your agent can plot the course to a successful sale. There's a lot of preparation that goes into the Elgin real estate market, but with the help of experienced professionals, you will have all of the information you need to make the most of the opportunity. For more information, contact an A to Z professional today.