Are you thinking of selling your home in the Spring? Well, it might be close to Christmas, but you should begin right now!
In my previous post, Thinking of Selling your Home in the Spring?, I outlined the steps to eating this elephant, one bite at a time.
Now comes the second "course" to eating this elephant! 
It's time to think about repairs, in an effort to appeal to every potential buyer out there! Not every person sees the potential in a home that's in need of repair, and frankly, fewer people these days have time to go to the Big Box store to buy materials to fix things that might be wrong with YOUR home.
Roof: You may have snow up there, so it's not ideal roofing season. However, it's very costly to do a complete tear-off and re-roof. Can you afford this? Are there other options? The roof may be THE major repair your home needs, and it will certainly be a deal-breaker if it's not in good shape. Get the names of reputable contractors by using recommendations from friends or Realtors®, and make appointments for estimates.
Electrical: Again, this can not only be a safety issue, but another possible deal-breaker. If the electrical is not up to code, you will have huge problems when the inspector comes before closing. Get this looked at NOW. Better yet, have a professional licensed inspector check everything BEFORE you list, so there are no surprises the week before closing! Who needs that headache?
Plumbing: Even a leaky faucet tells a potential buyer that other parts of the home might be neglected!
Appliances: Will they be staying? Be sure they are working flawlessly and look brand-new!
Foundation: Any cracks? Leaks in the basement? Damp or moldy in the cellar area? Correct these NOW!
HVAC: Again, have a pro check these out. Just because it's working now doesn't mean it's in perfect shape. If you have a fireplace, again, stick with the pros!
Windows, doors, insulation: Is the caulking fresh? Feeling a breeze under the back door? Is the attic insulation at an appropriate level for your climate? Add it to your list of to-do's so there are no surprises later.
These basic repairs are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to having your home professionally inspected. However, if you budget this into the sale of your home, you invest very wisely.
Enjoy the Holidays, and once you take the tree down in January, get back into Sell This House mode!
Merry Christmas and a Prosperous, Healthy, Happy New Year, everyone!
Elephant photo courtesy of eHow.com.
Windows and door photo courtesy of Pacific Home Works.
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