Ask Your Realtor; How Important Is Home Maintenance?

Recently I met with a couple who bought their first home 5 years ago. Now that their family has grown it is time for a larger home. In the time they have owned the home improvements have been limited to interior painting. Mechanicals, appliances, roof, are now in the 15+ age range. In addition, the many minor items identified in the home inspection when they purchased the home have not been addressed. The problem; a potential buyer will see nothing but dollar signs as they consider this home with potential upgrades necessary in the near future.

Dining room wainscoting adds "wow factor".

My advice - when you purchase a home, plan on making one improvement a year and certainly correct any required repairs when necessary. The inspection report you receive when purchasing a home could be used as a checklist of repairs over time.

My husband and I have been in our current home for about 6 years. Over that time we have made maintenance and cosmetic improvements. For instance, although our furnace and a/c were only 17 years old and working fine, we took advantage of the incredible tax credits available last year and replaced with high efficient units. My husband has recently taken on some home DIY projects like brick patio with built-in grill, bar, and fire pit. His most recent project was installing wainscoting in our dining room.

So, enjoy your home, but also show a level of care that the next buyer will appreciate and value.