Barbara Lehrer
By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Every column I write is intended to assist sellers in their home ownership. Whether starting out as a new property owner or selling a home, there is always work that needs to be done. A professional real estate agent with information from years of experience is your best resource. This is compiled, useful data from real life situations, dilemmas and misguided repairs restructured.
Negligent repairs – and neglect itself – becomes one of the specialties in your guidance with a good agent. Years of common problems and unique situations build the resources for each transaction that an agent has. They are abundant if you know where to look.
A transaction is the unlimited details, from the start to finish, performed during your realtor’s contract and commitment. Even when you are settled in and no longer meeting with your agent, the relationship continues. Over time, your agent is always available with up-to-date information for any problem.
Guiding a homeowner with solutions on the best resources can only be done when research is ongoing and current. Every day a new problem arises. Technology for home problems is all over the internet, but the local remedies are the resources that we know and that we share with the client. We know the better well companies and the advanced basement dampness companies. These are part of what the agent carries in their back pocket. How about reminders to check your water, your radon, your attic venting? Do not distance yourself from your realtor; it is all free for the taking once you have a relationship.
The satisfaction an agent gets from a job well done comes in many forms. An insurance agency recently complimented me on my last column regarding roof aging and its coverage. The kudos I received was based on the accuracy of my knowledge. This type of information results from my wanting to protect my buyers and sellers by informing them of liabilities.
It is crucial to the smooth aging and enjoyment of your home to prevent mistakes. Old gutters can seep water into the basement or rot a window. Your oil-fired hot water heater was pricey. Get it serviced; the glass inside can be replaced and thus prevent a need for total replacement.
There are so many moving parts to maintaining your property. Check the chimney periodically. All these things were brought to your attention when you purchased the home and had a home inspection. Dig out the paperwork. Go back over the checklist. The information there will help you whether you are in your home five years or 25 years. This itemized booklet should serve as an active reminder of what to look for. Keeping your home current creates the best price support.
I have seen these problems over and over with house after house. No one has more experience or logical help for you than your agent. Keep in touch, and share the name with other families needing to buy or sell. I love my job.
If you need more information on these issues, email Barbara.Lehrer@cbmoves.com.