In today’s real estate market, many people in the market for a new home are savvy enough to examine a prospective home’s plumbing carefully. No one wants to buy problematic plumbing that will surprise them with leaks, low water pressure, big bills or other plumbing-related problems and costs.
Buyers want an expectation that they can experience years of good water pressure, hot water in quantity, proper drainage and leak-free pipes and appliances. To ensure that your home sale progresses smoothly, one of the best actions you can take is making sure that your home’s plumbing is in good condition, from the pipes to the fixtures and sewer line.
Plumbing Features Buyers Are Looking for In a New Home
When you’re preparing to put your home on the market, check the plumbing features below and make sure that each is in good condition.
- Good water pressure and flow: New buyers want to look forward to long, invigorating hot showers. As well as being pleasurable, they are a sign of pipes that are in good condition and not corroded, clogged or leaking. Smart buyers will walk around the house turning on faucets. Check them all before you have people touring your home and ensure each one has good water pressure and turns off tightly.
- Pipes in good condition: Home inspectors will routinely check all visible plumbing pipes to determine what material they are made from. In general, these pipes should be made from copper, PVC or PEX. Note that PVC and PEX cannot be used for outdoor pipes and PVC should not be used for hot water. Any pipes that are made from lead, galvanized steel or polybutylene should be replaced before putting your house on the market. This is a considerable investment but realize that their presence could stall the sale of your home.
- No leaks: Of course there should be no dripping or dribbling faucets indoors or out. Beyond that, there should be no damp areas or mold growth resulting from invisible leaks inside walls. Some inspectors use moisture meters to detect leaks or water damage inside walls.
- Efficient water heater that is not too old: Since most water heaters have a life of eight to 15 years (depending on whether it is gas or electric), if your water heater is approaching the end of its life, you can score points by replacing it now. Look for an energy-efficient model or a tankless water heater which many people know will save on energy costs.
- Updated plumbing fixtures and appliances: Newer models of appliances are often energy efficient, using less water and power. If you have these or install them before your house is up for sale, save all the stickers and labels to show prospective buyers. Low-flow toilets or faucets are sought after by those interested in sustainability. Your prospective buyers may also realize that newer appliances will have few or no problems with clogged lines or an accumulation of mold.
- Excellent drainage: All drains should be free and clear of any obstruction. Make sure to check your yard for any evidence of sewer line problems, such as sunken or soggy areas, smells or patches of lush green grass. If possible, have a video inspection of the sewer line done and present the report to prospective buyers.
Plumbing Improvements That Appeal to Prospective Buyers
The right investments can increase interest from prospective buyers and smooth the way to a fast sale. You must, of course, address any problems such as leaks or corrosion in your system. Once that is done, here’s the other improvements you can do to make your home a hot property!
- Tankless water heater: Appeals to the energy-conscious.
- New bathroom and kitchen fixtures: New sinks, faucets, shower heads and toilets will give the home a modern and stylish look as well as better functionality.
- New pipes: Since your pipes are not out in the open, keep the paperwork from this improvement available to show that you have invested in upgrades for your home.
- Water filtration: This could be a whole-house filter or an under-sink system that provides drinking water. Point out to buyers that they can avoid the need for bottled water.
- Smart plumbing system: A smart system will let you know if there is a leak or help you manage water consumption.
Rocketman Plumbing Is Ready to Help You Prepare Your Home for Sale!
Whatever you need to make your home irresistible to a buyer, we’re ready to help. Our experienced crew has the tools and know-how to get your home ready to be inspected or toured. Call us at 505-243-1227 for a free estimate on plumbing upgrades!