When you are getting your property ready to sell, it can feel like there are a million things to do. Seasoned investors try to prioritize renovation projects by which ones will bring the most value to the home and be most cost-effective throughout the sale. If you’re trying to get your property ready for the market, it’s important to carefully analyze each aspect of the home to determine which areas need to be renovated and which order to do them in.
It is also important to have a system in place to carefully inspect and analyze projects you’ve already done. This helps you take a close look at all of the projects and renovations you’ve done on a property and make sure they’re working properly.
What is a punch list?
A punch list is a commonly used tool to help investors stay organized and on track with the renovation projects they have going on. It is also used as part of a final walk-through, to make sure that not only are all of your renovation projects complete, but they are done right.
A quick Google search will help you find renovation checklist templates that you can use to ensure that your projects have been completed successfully. While all punch lists will be different based on the size and scope of the project, there are a few things that you will find on almost every renovation punch list.
Exterior
If you’ve done work to the outside of the property, it is essential that you use your punch list to examine the outside renovation projects to ensure everything is up to standard. Some of these things include:
- Paint on windows, doors, and siding is touched up
- The garden has been mowed, weeded and tended to
- Shrubs and landscaping have been trimmed
- Check that gutters and downspouts are mounted properly
- Perform a roof analysis
- Pressure wash car park and sidewalks
- Windows are dusted and washed
Interior
Once you’ve used your punch list to make sure the exterior of your home is up to standard, it is time to use this tool to do an interior walkthrough and look over each renovation project throughout the home.
A deep clean of the entire home is the first step in preparing your home for sale. This will allow you to clear out any distractions and focus strictly on the status of each renovation project throughout the home.
Some of the things you can expect to find on an interior renovation checklist include:
Living Areas
- Walls are freshly painted and free of holes, cracks, and damages
- Doors and windows are wiped down and in working order
- Carpet is cleaned or replaced
Kitchen
The kitchen is a popular place for renovation because an updated kitchen is one of the best ways to improve the value of a home. If you’ve done some work in the kitchen, your punch list can help you make sure that:
- All appliances are in working order
- Hardware and light fixtures are updated
- Floors are clean and free of damage
- Clean countertops
- Clean cabinets inside and out
Bathroom
A bathroom renovation is another way to add value to a property, and a final walkthrough with a punch list can ensure everything is in working order. Some things to look for include:
- Water pressure is strong and consistent
- Counters and mirrors are wiped down and clean
- Showers, bath, and toilet are clean
- Floors are mopped and free of damage
- Light fixtures are working properly
- Windows and doors open and shut correctly
The Takeaway
Preparing your home to sell means making minor and major upgrades to improve the value of the home and appeal to the widest audience possible. Before you put your property up for sale, use a renovation punch list to ensure all the work you’ve done is up to par. This will help you feel more confident and prepared when it is time to put your home on the market.
