Homebuyers are on the lookout for potential problems. You’ve probably given a lot of thought to how you can make the inside of your house appealing to buyers, but don’t overlook the trees outside.
Your House Will Make a Positive Impression
Curb appeal is critically important to prospective buyers. They look at a home’s exterior and make assumptions about how well the current owner cares for the entire property.
Trees with damaged or decaying branches will make buyers assume that the interior is in similar or worse condition. Landscaping that’s well maintained, on the other hand, will show buyers that you take pride in your home. They’ll want to see more and will be likely to leave with a positive impression.
You Can Eliminate Hazards
A damaged tree limb can fall on the roof, cause structural damage and injure or kill people inside the house. A fallen branch can also damage or destroy a garage, deck, shed, or car.
Trees don’t always cause major destruction all at once. A limb that hangs over the roof can scrape the shingles and give animals access to the attic. Leaves can clog gutters, and water that backs up can damage the roof, foundation and lawn.
Buyers keep their eyes peeled for things that might cause damage and/or injuries. Addressing tree-related issues before you list your house can eliminate potential concerns from the minds of buyers.
Tree Damage Can Sink a Deal
Buyers generally have properties inspected before closing. A home inspector won’t conduct a thorough tree inspection but will note any obvious issues.
A tree that’s damaged or too close to the roof can become a sticking point in negotiations. The buyer might ask you to have the tree trimmed or cut down or request a price reduction. If you can’t reach an agreement, the buyer might walk away.
Not Disclosing a Problem Can Come Back to Haunt You
Although state laws vary, a seller has a legal obligation to disclose material facts that might influence a buyer’s decision. If you know that a tree on your property is damaged, dead, or dying, but you don’t reveal that information to a buyer, you can get sued years later if the tree causes damage or injuries.
An Arborist Can Identify Problems and Solutions
You might overlook signs of tree damage, or you might notice an issue and assume that the tree needs to be cut down when, in fact, it just needs to be pruned. An arborist can detect a problem and figure out the best way to deal with it.
Trimming branches and cutting down trees can be dangerous if you don’t have the right equipment and training. If you make a mistake, you can hurt yourself, cause a tree limb to fall on your roof or car, or knock down an electrical wire. Hiring a professional arborist can help you avoid getting injured or causing additional problems.
