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Electrical Issues Often Deter Potential Buyers
You understand the importance of increasing your home’s curb appeal. But what you may fail to realize is that what’s hidden behind the scenes (or in the utility closet, in the case of your circuit box) can quickly send buyers shopping elsewhere for a home. Although you don’t want to spend a fortune on a home you’ve outgrown, it is wise to learn when to update home wiring to ensure you earn top dollar on your home sale.
Which Electrical Upgrades Are the Most Enticing for Home Buyers?
Bulb-style fuse box? We think not. These electrical upgrades are key to reducing the need for endless negotiations surrounding price reductions/credits following a home inspection, and will help you net an offer at (or above) listing price in today’s tight housing market.
- Outdated Wiring Systems
Wiring systems that have been in place since Grover Cleveland was President, such as knob and tube and aluminum wiring, a leading cause of home fires, will have both home shoppers and homeowner’s insurance companies headed for the hills. For safety and to manage the massive load of electronics today’s homes house, your entire home should have modern solid copper wire and adequate grounding. - Antiquated Electrical Service
Your home should be wired to receive 200-amps, not the traditional 60-amps older homes used, which will not support the sheer number of electrical fixtures, appliances, and electrical load today’s homeowners require. - 2-Prong (Ungrounded) Outlets
Nothing says ‘it’s not gonna work’ to today’s tech-savvy buyers like dusty 2-prong outlets.
It’s the digital age, and today’s home buyers want plugs (and wiring) they can depend on.
All outlets must be able to accept 3-prong plugs and properly grounded. You may not care if your old Zenith gets zapped, but buyers will care about their sensitive, thousand-dollar smart gadgetry. - Not Enough Outlets
An outlet per room is far from impressive, and extension cords a dangerous nuisance. Multiple outlets should found in every room, in convenient locations like next to the night stand, outside the front door, or in the bathroom. - Ancient, Recalled, Undersized (or Missing) Circuit Breaker Panels
All wiring should run through circuit breaker panel. Those that are old or outdated (hello, bulb style panels!), recalled (Federal Pacific panels from the 60s and 70s), improperly modified (yikes – is that duct tape?), or undersized (why are the lights flickering?) will stall the home sale, effecting not just the function and value of your home, but its insurability. - MIA GFCIs
Outlets in the bath, kitchen, garage, basement, or other wet locations should be GFCI equipped, as water increases the risk of electric shock. These devices monitor electrical current, cutting it off instantaneously when an imbalance is detected.
Contact Mr. Electric
About to put your home on the market? An electrical inspection can help you circumnavigate sales issues before they pop up. Ensure a fast and profitable home sale. Contact Mr. Electric to schedule yours today.
This blog is made available by Mr. Electric for educational purposes only to give the reader general information and a general understanding on the specific subject above. The blog should not be used as a substitute for a licensed electrical professional in your state or region. Check with city and state laws before performing any household project.
