When it comes to keeping up your home’s surfaces, systems and appliances, there are a number of things you can do yourself throughout the year to ensure they last as long as possible. On the other hand, some problems can become increasingly expensive to remedy or could even lead to dangerous malfunction if they are not dealt with correctly. That’s why it’s often worth the service fee to rely on the expertise of professionals for the following issues.
- Have your furnace serviced by a heating and cooling system contractor before the onset of winter to make sure it is functioning safely and efficiently. Do the same with your air conditioning unit before the heat sets in to keep it working well.
- At the end of every winter season, hire a chimney sweep to examine the fireplace and chimney, and have it cleaned or repaired as recommended.
- Call on a pest inspector periodically, or whenever you suspect critters may have moved into your space, to check for signs of termites, carpenter ants, bees, fungus, dry rot, bedbugs, mice or rats. Have any active infestations treated promptly to avoid serious damage.
- Consult a professional service person or contractor for any ongoing maintenance issue that you don’t have the time, knowledge, tools or resources to deal with yourself.
The Problem with Deferring Maintenance
Deferring maintenance can be expensive since many minor issues have the potential to grow into major problems that can no longer be ignored. These needed repairs can really take their toll when it comes time to sell.
Homes that obviously need work turn off some potential buyers, and will prompt others to write offers well under market value. Less visible issues that are identified during a home inspection can be deal breakers if sellers don’t agree to address them prior to closing. In extreme cases, lenders may also refuse to fund a loan based on the condition of a home.
If your home could use some preventative maintenance, feel free to ask us to recommend a good service provider.
For over 30 years the Prime Property Team and Ron Carpenito of Keller Williams Realty Andover have been helping home buyers and sellers in Andover, North Andover, Haverhill, and the Merrimack Valley with their real estate goals. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home anywhere in Massachusetts or know someone who is, contact Ron today at (978)494-0346.
Home Selling Resources
| Complete Guide to Home Selling | Get a Free Consultation on Selling Your Home |
| 10 Tips to Selling Your Home | How to Prepare Your Home for Sale |
| Find Out What Your Home is Worth |
Home Buying Resources
| Search Homes For Sale Now | View Open House List |
| Home Buying Process – A Complete Guide | 7 Tips to Home Buyer Success |
| Free Home Buyer Consultation | Why You Need A Buyers Agent |
