Flowers are blooming, trees are leafing out. For sale and open house signs are popping up everywhere, sometimes even jostling for position on favored street corners. Spring weather is bringing homebuyers out in droves, reflecting a pent-up demand caused by our long, hard winter.It’s still a buyersís market, but inside the industry, there’s talk of change in the warm spring breeze.Many real estate agents report having had their best first quarter in years.The warm weather also focuses attention on systems that may have been dormant for the past six months, such as air conditioners and sprinkler systems.Here’s a checklist of springtime chores that can enhance your chances of a quicker sale:
- Check the air-conditioning system: Uncover the exterior AC compressor, confirm that it is level on its platform and trim back bushes or vines that are too close. Compressors need clear airspace around them.Most people in the industry will caution against running your AC system until it is at least 65 degrees outside for 12 consecutive hours. It’s also a good time to remove clutter from around the AC compressor.
- Fire up evaporative coolers: Usually mounted on the rooftop, these appliances are covered in the winter. Remove the cover and get the system up and running for the warm days ahead.This usually involves removing and cleaning the three or four side panels of the rooftop unit, reattaching the water line to the unit and confirming that the float level and pump are operational. Calling in an HVAC professional could be a good move here.
- Ensure that all windows operate smoothly: If some are stuck or painted shut, the impression will be that many windows cannot open. Also, repair or replace all window screens and install the screens if they have been removed. Repair or replace a damaged screen slider.
- Make sure the sprinkler system works: Start the system and confirm that all zones are correctly working and there are no failed sprinkler heads and no leaks. Make available the system paperwork and zone diagram, as well as information about any recent work on the system.Sprinkler systems are often buyers’ No. 1 concern during a home inspection. For homes without sprinkler systems, confirm the presence of at least two faucets on the outside of the house.
- Provide keys or unlock sheds and outbuildings: Garden sheds with storage shelves, or additional storage in the garage, can be positive amenities for buyers in search of space to store their garden tools and other warm-weather gear. Indicate which storage shelves stay with the house.
- If your house has operational solar panels, spray them clean about twice a year: Also make the system paperwork – as well as that for water-softening systems, in-line water filters, radon-mitigation systems and electronic air filters – available for potential buyers.
- Ensure that all exterior lights operate correctly: Even if a bulb is out, the impression will be that the fixture doesn’t work. Leave a couple front lights on in the evening because buyers will often do a late drive-by of their favorite listings.
- Use a pour-in sealant to fill cracks in the driveway, garage and front walk: This will greatly slow down weathering caused by water entering the cracks and will show buyers that the house is well maintained.
- Clean the gutters, clear the downspouts and extend them away from the house: Rainwater on the roof is the main source of water entering the house. Every downspout can be improved to carry water away and down any available slope. Also, confirm that the sump pump, if present, is operational.
