As things continue to change in the mortgage and real estate industry, more and more details get considered.  The "t"s not only need to be crossed, but with a perfectly straight line.

I had a listing recently which inspired the title of this blog.  I looked at the home, noticed there was some peeling paint on some of the exterior trim around the windows and pointed that out to the homeowner.  The intention was to have her grandchildren get it done, but that didn't happen.  We got a contract on it pretty quick and just went forward with the sale.  But, of course, when the appraiser came by, he noted the paint and called for repairs prior to the close.

There we were in October.  And for some reason we skipped fall.  Temps were down, rain/snow was frequent, and I was getting laughed at when getting quotes for the job to be done.  (not really...)  Fortunately, the lender allowed us to escrow the amount at closing (at 1.5 times the amount!) to be done in the Spring or when we actually got our fall.

So here is what I knew, but have thus been reinforced...

Paint it.

If you are looking to sell your home, but have peeling paint on the eaves, trimwork, or siding, you'll need to get that repaired before an appraiser will approve it for a VA, FHA, or First time homebuyer loan.  (which is a big percentage - especially under $200,000)  So get it done before the appraiser comes by.  Before or shortly after you list would be even better!

Other things to watch out for:

Roofs.  (shingles looking frayed and curling?  be prepared for the "Needs to be replaced" from the inspector or appraiser)
Decks.  (are there railings in place on decks over 3 feet high?)
Gutters.  (make sure your downspouts are in place and running AWAY from the home)
Broken window panes.  Missing window seals.

Basically, anything that would present an issue to the structural integrity or safety of the home needs to be looked at.

Get them taken care of as soon as you can.  It will sell quicker.  You won't be stressed 1 week before closing trying to get all this stuff done.

Ease the stress.  Just paint it.

Here's to more stress free stuff,

- Tristan

Tristan Emond
Prudential Kahler REALTORS
www.rapidhomesonline.com