Selling a home can often be a complicated process that requires time and attention to detail. The plumbing systems play a large role in preparing a home to be ready for sale. It may be tempting to upgrade or remodel a bathroom or kitchen before listing; however, appearances will not matter if plumbing problems are lurking underneath.
Plumbing issues can be the difference between a quick, efficient sale process and homes sitting on the market for longer periods. More than that, if plumbing issues are not fixed prior to listing, it can result in a serious reduction in sale price. Luckily, there are a few things that you can do to prep your home and your plumbing systems for sale.
Common Plumbing Issues to Fix Before Saling Your Home
You might be sick of the same old bathroom or kitchen, but before you start to update the cosmetics, consider functionality and condition. Some plumbing issues are obvious and should be fixed before selling a house. Even seemingly small issues like a running toilet or leaking pipe can be enough to turn potential buyers off.
The main points of focus when managing a plumbing system before sale are the ones that impact functionality, reduce water consumption and showcase a commitment to proper maintenance.
- Repair Leaky Faucets:There’s nothing fun about plumbing leaks! A dripping faucet, leaky valve or toilet that just won’t stop running can all be enough to turn prospective buyers off. A quick replacement might be enough to fix a leaky pipe, but to potential buyers, it can signal that the home hasn’t been maintained properly.
- Address Obvious Water Damage:Buying a home is a major investment, so you can expect buyers to open up cupboards and closets, and areas around bathtubs, water heaters and more. If there are signs of water damage in these areas (or any others) it’s a good idea to repair or replace damaged areas, as well as apply new caulk and grout so there are no residual signs of damage.
- Ensure Appliances Work:The appliances in a home should reflect the people living in them. Upgrading appliances before listing is expensive but does not always necessarily guarantee returns. The concern is often if the appliances break down or show obvious signs of struggle. When garbage disposals start to break down, for example, you might expect some loud grinding noises or even water backup. If this is the case, it is a good idea to have a professional test and replace these appliances as needed.
- Check Water Pressure:It is not uncommon for house hunters to turn on taps and start showers just to get an idea of the water pressure. Water pressure is a major factor in whether or not a shower is a relaxing experience or a source of frustration. It might be something as simple as a partially closed valve, a stubborn clog or potentially something more serious. There are plenty of reasons that you might experience low water flow, so it is always best to consult an expert.
- Update Old or Damaged Plumbing:Heritage homes are beautiful and have a lot of character, however there is also a chance that they have outdated plumbing systems. New buyers are ready to invest significantly in the purchase of a house, and not everyone is willing to update key systems like plumbing. Updating outdated systems or investing in pipe repair can put house hunters at ease about the future cost of repairs or replacements and may provide a greater return on investment for the sellers.
- Unclog Drains:Ensuring that drains are unclogged might seem obvious, however it is always a good idea to ensure that all clogs are removed before showing a home. As a homeowner, it is easy to overlook some of the quirks of your house, but potential buyers are on the lookout for any potential issues. Most clogs are simple enough to treat with the right equipment, but for serious blockages or issues within the sewer line, it’s always better to consult the experts. Drain cleaners and hot water are not enough to tackle those stubborn clogs, and that is why it’s best to call in a repair expert.
- Professional Appliance Installation:For sellers who are looking to provide new owners with upgraded appliances, it is important to make sure that they are installed properly. Whether it’s a new water heater, updated refrigerator, bathtub or shower, plumbing experts ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Put Your Best Foot Forward with Expert Plumbing Repairs
Small plumbing issues can be a sign of poor maintenance, which will make prospective buyers think twice about the overall condition of the house. A leaking pipe, for example, might give the impression that there could be red flags such as water damage elsewhere in the house.
Further, sellers are required to disclose any major issues before a sale. Trying to skirt around the problem or complete DIY repairs can result in lawsuits and court costs. Something as simple as forgetting to turn off the water supply before beginning a project can result in serious damage and headaches. Ditch the risk by calling Pete & Son Plumbing for all of your repair and installation needs.
