Homes were made for people to live in and thrive when taken care of. Vacant properties deteriorate much more quickly when the major systems of the home are not used. If you list or sell a home that has been vacant for more than 30 days, you can expect the possibility of system deterioration, particularly in the area of things that have rubber seals and gaskets. Before you write an offer on a vacant property, you may want to run the garbage disposal (locks up), the dishwasher (the seal dries out and it leaks all over the floor), the washing machine (seals dry up and it leaks), all exhaust fans (the oil in the bearings dries up & it squeals and squeaks), the humidifier (clogs up from lack of use).
Even if they are must-be-in-normal-working-order-condition items, it’s always easier to address them up front with the contract offer, than after the home inspection.
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