6 Items You Never Thought Would Cause a Buyer to Panic

In today's market, and really any market, there are things that every seller should do for their home prior to listing it for sale. Now before you stop reading believing that this is one of those lists that have been seen every where keep reading as I am going to cover some things that maybe you hadn't thought of. These items are more important then you think and may make the difference between a home completing its escrow or a buyer cancelling and moving on to another home.

1. Strap your water heater appropriately - Water heaters must be strapped by code in order to pass a home inspection performed by a buyers home inspector. A seller would be wise to make sure a licensed contractor comes out to make sure that the water heater is strapped and the exhaust for the water heater is appropriate.
2. Your electrical box is up to code - electricity scares buyers as they believe it is very expensive to fix electrical boxes. Now it can be but often times it is as simple as a new breaker or a new cover for your box. Avoid this item being called out in an inspection and make sure that an electrician takes a look at your electrical box prior to listing it for sale or at least prior to the buyers inspection.
3. Make sure the vents that block access to your foundation are repaired - in a raised foundation home there are vents (sometimes) that allow access to the home. Make sure they all look presentable and repaired.
4. Fix all broken glass - this may sound obvious but sometimes their is a small window in a closet (especially in old craftsman homes) that has a cracked pane of glass that you hadn't got around to fixing. Make sure that you get it fixed prior to any showings.
5. Leaking faucets - This may seem small but when a buyer can be picky they often will and you want to make sure the least amount of items show up on a physical inspection report as possible and this is one that is easy to spot.
6. Make sure you have replaced all outlet covers if missing - this is another one that scares buyers that is quite small. Make sure that you have all outlets covered and new ones if possible. It is a small detail that is very much appreciated.

Many people when they sell a car make sure to get it all cleaned up and even take it for a tune up. This is exactly what you want to do for your home. You want to make sure that all the details are done and it is in its best condition possible. You don't need to go overboard with upgrading items but make sure that you and your real estate professional go through your home and take time to look at what things might scare buyers and do your best to address those prior to it coming up in any report.