8 Things to do Before Listing your Home

There are many things involved in the home buying and selling process. We have put together some simple things a homeowner can do to get their home in prime selling condition before it is put on the market.

You will find our list of what to do before listing your home below, along with a link to a PDF version of this information in order to make it easy to share!

1.    Gather service/repair records for all major systems and appliances.

Roof/Attic
Foundation
HVAC
Irrigation System
Pool/Spa
Plumbing/Water Heater
Electrical

2.    Have HVAC unit serviced and check air filters for excessive dirt.

3.    Test all appliances to make sure of proper operation. Make note of or repair any known issues.

Microwave/Hood Vent/Hood Light
Oven/Stovetop
Dishwasher
Garbage Disposal/Trash Compactor
Smoke Detector/Carbon Monoxide Detector
Light Fixtures/Ceiling Fans
Broken/Missing Outlet Covers
Sinks/Showers/Tubs/Toilets
Fireplace/Flue

4.    Check windows for damage and make note of or repair/replace.

Broken seals (can be identified by moisture in between panes)
Cracked panes
Damaged or missing screens
Deteriorated caulking around window frames

5.    Check doors for damage and make note of or repair/replace.

Loose/damaged hardware
Damaged trim
Non-latching doors

6.    Check walls/ceilings for damage and make note of or repair.

Cracks
Water stains/damage
Holes

7.    Check flooring for damage and make note of or repair.

Soiled carpet
Cracked/loose tiles
Missing grout
Loose floorboards/baseboards
Scratches/damage

8.    Check landscaping for damage and make note of or repair.

Dead vegetation
Vegetation in contact with structure
Tree limbs overhanging roof
Clean debris from gutters
Soil line too high in flowerbeds (should be able to see 3-6 inches of concrete slab foundation)
Fence condition (missing planks, rotted fence posts, aged stain)

It is also important to clear the immediate vicinity around the water heater, main electric panel and attic door to allow inspector access to these areas.

Cornerstone Property Inspection created this list to help you get your home in top selling condition. Please contact us with any questions you have, or if there is any way in which we can be of service to you!

CPI - Pre-List Checklist