‘Real deal-breakers’: Four minor home repairs to consider or risk scaring off potential buyers
Making minor repairs on your home could boost its value
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Four seemingly minor issues could knock large sums off the value of your property and potentially scare buyers off, an expert has warned.
Andrew Boast, a property expert from SAM Conveyancing, warned that mould, asbestos, outdated wiring and invasive weeds can be "real deal-breakers" for potential buyers.
The expert warned that these factors lower the appeal of homes and compromise their foundations.
He said: “We all know the secrets to increase a property’s curb appeal for selling, such as painting and decluttering, but some hidden factors can negatively affect the asking price and even stop a sale.
Japanese knotweed can compromise the structure of entire buildings
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“This is why addressing these less obvious problems is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful sale.”
Tackling these issues early enough could prevent complications when the time comes to sell, according to Andrew.
Mould
A property should be thoroughly inspected for mould before being added to the property market.
According to Andrew, mould scares potential buyers more quickly than most other problems because it compromises the structure of buildings and is a health hazard.
Mould can be particularly difficult to treat if it grows in places that cannot be seen, like between the walls.
While most households have to deal with mould in areas like the bathrooms, hidden mould can quickly put off buyers who won’t want to risk their items becoming damaged or spending lots of money attempting to treat it.
Asbestos
Asbestos was commonly used in home construction until scientists discovered that it causes irreparable scarring to the lungs.
To prevent unpleasant surprises and legal action further down the line, it is the responsibility of sellers to ensure their house is free of asbestos.
Japanese Knotweed
Japanese Knotweed is a perennial plant that grows aggressively, making it notoriously difficult to remove.
Boast explained: “It is always best to look at your property with fresh eyes and imagine you are seeing it for the first time.
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Mould is one of several factors that can scare off potential buyers
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“Also, let no good deed go untold, and give potential buyers certificates for any work you’ve had done. This will keep your buyer happy and give a good first impression.”
Poor wiring
Having outdated wiring around the property is an all too common issue that could lower the property value and put potential buyers off.
Fully rewiring a property will rarely add value to the home, but it will prevent buyers from using faulty electricity as a leveraging tool to decrease their offer by large sums.
To avoid problems down the line, sellers are encouraged to have their wiring inspected by an electrician and provide a certification of electrical work to reassure buyers.