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On keeping your home up-to-date and well maintained

By
Real Estate Agent with Audrey Edelman RealtyUSA

Having recently sold the home that I grew up in, I'm more attuned to what buyers expect and are willing to pay for. Although I hadn't lived in the home for several years, I might have encouraged the family member that was living there to consider some updates and repairs on a regular basis.

The home was a 1950s ranch that was updated in the 1970s - complete with olive green appliances and green sculptured and shag carpeting!

We went through and ripped up old carpeting and refinished the beautiful hardwood flooring. The entire interior was repainted. That alone (and a few minor repairs) came to more than $10K. But we left the dated kitchen and bath and the windows in need of replacement. I now know first hand that the time comes when you need to decide whether to put more money into the house or sell it at a drastically reduced price - which I did.

Keep after those repairs. Check your mechanicals at least once a year for needed repairs or replacement. Take a look at the roof and gutters. Check the plumbing. Keep the interior freshly painted. Scrutinize your house with the eyes of a potential buyer - even if you don't plan on relocating any time soon. When the time comes to sell the process will be easier and if you don't move, you'll have the peace of mind knowing that your home is well maintained.

Michael A. Caruso
Surterre Properties - Laguna Niguel, CA

It's always good to remember what it's like to be on the other side of the sale.

Please remember me if you learn of anyone moving to "The OC."

Best Regards

Michael Caruso

Sep 22, 2008 06:13 AM