My house has high level of radon! Now what?

If you are the Seller, chances are the Buyer is going to want YOU to take care of the problem. Not to panic, there are companies that can help. There are professional companies that specialize in the installation of radon remediation systems. They are not outrageously expensive and are much better than the alternative of refusing to address the problem. Refusing to fix the problem could result in losing the Buyer which means you would have to put the property back on the market. If the property goes back on the market, as the Seller, you are required to DISCLOSE that radon was found and provide the results if asked.

Now that the shock has subsided, this is where you need to keep your emotions in check and not let them get the better part of you. I know you might be thinking that you have already agreed to sell at a certain price, and this is an unforeseen "out of pocket" expense. Understood! However, give this serious thought before you refuse to fix the problem. It might cost you more in the long run if you do not work something out with the Buyer. Which means the following bears repeating....

When buying or selling real estate there are "inconveniences" that may or may not come up in the home, radon, or pest inspection process. If you are a Seller and are pro-active, consider having some of these tests completed in advance so you can address problems ahead of time. At a minimum, you need to be aware that a Buyer may request that those items that show up on the "need to be repaired" side of the home inspection report either be repaired, or they may ask for a price adjustment.

Take a deep breath, and put yourself in the shoes of the opposite party. I know it is not always easy to do, but please humor me for a moment. Ask yourself, what would you want or ask for in repairs and/or monetary compensation if YOU were the Buyer? Hmmm... I thought you might feel differently.

Psst..... while you are in the pro-active mode, make sure you take care of any touch-ups such as painting and de-cluttering. The cost could be minimal but the rewards will be measurable ($ $ $). A house that is well maintained and presented in its best form will have a much better chance of standing out amongst the competition. Your first impression, might be your ONLY opportunity to capture the attention of the right Buyer. Make it a good one!