Whether you’re buying or selling a property, you have an overwhelming list of things to do before you make your final decision. All the paperwork, back and forth communication, walkthroughs and price comparisons can take a long time. However, most people forget to consider how pests play into the big picture.
Pests? What role do they have in buying or selling a home? Pests should actually play a fairly large role. More than just being pesky annoyances, they can cause serious damage to a home’s structural integrity. The National Pest Management Association estimates that over $5 billion in home damages each year comes from termites alone. That doesn’t factor in all the other destructive creatures like rodents, beetles and carpenter ants that chew, scratch or stain their way through a property.
So what do you watch out for, and what can you do to maximize your property’s value? Here’s a breakdown of what pest-related things to look for when buying or selling a home.
While small open spaces may not initially seem like a big deal, they are entry points for every pest imaginable. Rats and mice can easily squeeze their way through openings the size of a coin and once inside will wreak havoc on insulation and wood. Insects will also have easy passage into the home’s living space. If you’re selling, you need to fix these right away as they can lower your property’s value upon inspection. If you’re buying and the sellers have no intention of fixing these issues, be wary.
Small cracks near the door or window are a little easier to fix. Applying silicone-based caulk to the crack can fix things up in no time and are not as big of an issue when buying or selling. Simply take the time to remedy these imperfections to prevent pest entry into the home.
Mold is an issue all on its own, but can you imagine if it brought a hoard of pests along with it? Unfortunately, mold does just that. Certain types of gnats rely on the mold for sustenance. Termites, however, are attracted to the pungent odor. Just know that if you see or smell mold in a property, major work needs to be done to make the living space inhabitable and worth purchasing.
Top-grade products laid down by qualified pest control experts on a regular basis prevent pests access to your home. Even if some make their way inside, the services will eradicate them and the experts will screen for hidden infestations.
Homeowners should strongly consider making the investment for the sake of the property’s health. If you’re buying, it should provide peace of mind to know that the home has been well-guarded against pest damage. Once you purchase the home, continue with these helpful services to keep your home pest-free.
Call a pest control expert near you today to safeguard against potential damages.