It can be hard to line up your moving timelines, especially with the unpredictability of the buying and selling game. You might even need to move before you sell your home…but is that feasible?
The good news is that nothing can stop you from moving into your new home before you sell your old one. But don’t let that old house be out of sight, out of mind. You need to maintain the home and its security until the deal closes – even if you don’t live there.
Diamond Real Estate Law is an experienced firm in McHenry, IL, and our attorneys are here to guide you through the moving and selling process. Keep these tips in mind if you need to move out before selling, listing or closing your home.
1. Maintain Utilities
Don’t cancel your utility services just because you’re not home. In Illinois, it’s usually the seller’s responsibility to take care of the home through the closing date, and utilities protect pipes and pumps throughout the house.
Gas can keep the house warm and prevent pipes from freezing and breaking, and electricity powers sump pumps to prevent flooding in basements and crawl spaces.
So even if you don’t live in the home, maintaining and paying for the utilities can save you from damages, headaches and expenses that come with burst pipes and pumps.
2. Maintain the Exterior
As long as you’re still the homeowner, you also need to maintain the home’s exterior. Details like shoveling snow and cutting grass can slip through the cracks once families move somewhere new, but don’t let that happen to you.
If you need help maintaining your home, don’t be afraid to hire people to take care of your lawn or exterior. Extra hands can help save time as you juggle two properties or homes.
3. Test Wells and Septic Systems
If you have a private well or septic system, this tip is for you. Most contracts in Illinois require the seller to provide the buyer with a well and septic report.
It’s advised to conduct these tests while someone still lives on the property, so it doesn’t slip your mind. If you don’t take care of the tests before closing, you may find yourself needing to escrow money afterward, just to ensure the well and septic systems function correctly for the new buyer.
4. Secure Your Property
Thieves and vandals can target vacant properties, since homeowners aren’t there to keep watch. Don’t let your property be a target. Install a security system if you don’t have one, and make sure you keep service until you close on the property. This includes Ring doorbells or similar security systems.
You can also ask trusted neighbors to stay on property, or at least keep an eye on it. You should also make sure your realtor stages the property before listing. That way, when it’s listed online, those who find it on Google won’t be able to tell that nobody lives on-site.
5. Collaborate With Your McHenry, IL Realtor
Speaking of your realtor, they are a great resource to have on your side. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help. Your realtor or one of their team members can do regular walkthroughs and check-ins to make sure everything is okay on property.
Let Diamond Real Estate Law Help Sell Your McHenry, IL Property
Following these simple tips, you will sleep well knowing that your property is protected through its closing date. Even when you don’t have eyes on it.
If you’re ready to sell your McHenry County or Illinois home, our experienced and trustworthy team at Diamond Real Estate Law can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
