Selling a home can be frustrating to homeowners. They’re asked to allow strangers into their home. They may never receive feedback and are left to wonder, “Why didn’t that last buyer bite?” What do anxious sellers do? They get an extra set of ears. Many homeowners have installed security cameras and smart-home devices. These installations can be an ultra high-tech security system or a simple baby monitor, and they all can be abused. A number of notable cases have emerged where sellers listened to a potential buyer’s showing. Sometimes it’s to gain advantage in negotiations, while other times it’s simply to better stage the property. So, can a seller covertly record or monitor a buyer’s showing?
Monthly Archives: August 2019
Vacant Homes
Whenever you are selling a home that is sitting vacant, it is critically important to be sure that it’s being properly maintained regularly. Here are some suggestions:
- The house should be cleaned at least every 2 weeks, even if it’s just a thorough dusting/sweeping.
- The yard should be maintained weekly. Sprinklers should be kept at their settings. A yard left alone for more than 2 weeks can become unruly quickly. Dead plants are a red flag item for criminals and are unattractive to buyers, renters, appraisers, inspectors, neighbors, etc.
- Maintain an even temperature. It can be slightly above or below the ‘comfort level’ of around 72 degrees to allow 10-15-minute-pre-showing adjustments. Keeping the temperature even is not just about viewing comfort. Do so even after a contract is signed and the home awaits closing. The walk-through inspection or appraisals should be equally comfortable. And homes can experience shifts when temperatures are at extremes.
- Collect mail/deliveries and store it neatly in a secure area or forward it.
- Flush toilets and run all faucets once a week at least. Water that remains sitting in p-traps can dry out and cause bad odors.
- Open curtains/blinds at least once a week to let light in.
- Install motion detector lights outside to discourage intruders. Keep all windows and doors securely locked. Consider lights on timers to give the impression someone is occupying the property.
- Be certain the home is insured while vacant. There is vacant home insurance.
- Consider parking a car in front of a house.
- Keep a security system activated. Internal and external security cameras help to monitor the house from afar.
- Have a list of resources related to the home on standby for quick access: a plumber, electrician, handyman as a minimum.
- Remove all valuables and food from the house.
- Where the climate is appropriate, open windows for 30 minutes or more to circulate new, fresh air once a week.
- Watch out for critters. They are attracted to vacant homes.
- Be especially careful of a vacant home in extreme cold. All exterior plumbing must be drained.