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:

1. The house should be cleaned at least every 2 weeks, even if it’s just a thorough dusting/sweeping.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Collect mail/deliveries and store it neatly in a secure area or forward it.
5. 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.
6. Open curtains/blinds at least once a week to let light in.
7. 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.
8. Be certain the home is insured while vacant. There is vacant home insurance.
9. Consider parking a car in front of a house.
10. Keep a security system activated. Internal and external security cameras help to monitor the house from afar.
11. Have a list of resources related to the home on standby for quick access: a plumber, electrician, handyman as a minimum.
12. Remove all valuables and food from the house.
13. Where the climate is appropriate, open windows for 30 minutes or more to circulate new, fresh air once a week.
14. Watch out for critters. They are attracted to vacant homes.
15. Be especially careful of a vacant home in extreme cold. All exterior plumbing must be drained.

If you have questions about your home value or the real estate market, we’d love to chat! We love this stuff.

Have a beautiful weekend.

The Jenni Stolarski Team

Lovers of all things numbers, the Dallas market, and helping you and your friends and family.

Our neighbor Michael Ashley, owner of Ashley Heating and Air Conditioning, recommends a few things homeowners can do to keep air-conditioning systems working efficiently and help avoid costly system
repairs.

1. Filters should be checked monthly and changed at intervals of at least every three months.  Proper airflow is crucial to the operation of an air conditioning and heating system.
2. To help maintain proper airflow of the condensing unit outside, cut back all vegetation so there is a space of at least 2 feet on all sides. Be careful not to damage any wiring or the copper refrigerant tubing.
3. Now is the time to get out the vacuum and clean the dust and debris that has accumulated on all the return grills and supply registers. A vacuum equipped with a brush is a great tool for the job. Also, a putty knife wrapped with a rag works well to get in-between the louvers. If mildew is present on supply grills, the supply boot may need to be sealed and/or insulated (which is when it’s time to phone a professional).
4. Check and replace the batteries in the thermostat, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (if applicable), if it has not been done within the last year.
   Once you’ve done these, it is a great time to schedule your spring/summer maintenance with a professional HVAC contractor. Of course, we recommend Michael Ashley, at 214-274-3841. Summer checkout is $99. If you mention that you’re a Jennisto client, you will get 10% off the checkup and any additional services needed.
   Stay cool friends!
   XO
   Jennisto