Preparing a Home for Sale

It all began with an initial consultation, where I sat down with the homeowners to understand their goals and timeline for selling. With their third child on the way, they had only a few months to prepare and move so they could be settled before the baby arrived.

During our conversation, I asked if they were aware of any issues with the house. They said no, and emphasized that their goal was to achieve top dollar for their home.

That’s when I suggested a pre-sale property condition report. This allows us to identify any concerns ahead of time, giving homeowners the chance to make small but important fixes before the property hits the market. They agreed, and we scheduled the assessment right away.

The report uncovered a few minor but worthwhile issues: a leaky faucet, worn weather stripping on doors, and a loose handrail. None were major, but left unresolved, they could raise concerns for potential buyers or even reduce offers. The homeowners quickly arranged to have these items repaired.

Once the updates were complete, the house was in excellent condition and ready to show. Because buyers could see the home was well-maintained, it attracted strong interest immediately. Within just a short time, we received multiple offers — one of them above asking price.

The homeowners were thrilled. Not only did they achieve their goal of selling quickly, but they also felt confident knowing they had addressed any potential issues upfront. With their home sold for top dollar, they were able to focus on what mattered most — welcoming their new baby into a new home.

First-Time Homebuyers

I recently worked with a young couple who were buying their first home. They were excited, but also a little overwhelmed by the process. Since this was their first major purchase together, they wanted to feel confident they were making the right choice.

After discussing their budget, needs, and timeline, we began looking at homes. They quickly found a property they loved — it had the right layout, the right location, and it fit their price range. Still, they were unsure about what to look for beyond the surface.

That’s when I recommended a pre-purchase property inspection. For new buyers especially, it’s a critical step to uncover any hidden issues and avoid unexpected costs after moving in.

The inspection revealed a few concerns: an aging furnace nearing the end of its lifespan, and some roof shingles that would need replacing within the next couple of years. While not deal-breakers, these were important items to know about before making an offer.

Armed with this information, the couple was able to negotiate with confidence. The sellers agreed to reduce the price slightly to account for the upcoming furnace replacement. This gave the buyers peace of mind, knowing they weren’t stepping into an unexpected financial burden.

In the end, they purchased the home they loved, within budget, and with a clear plan for future maintenance. As first-time buyers, they felt reassured knowing they had made an informed decision — and they couldn’t wait to start this new chapter of their lives.