What should a seller expect when selling a house with termites?
It's good to have a record of treatment plans when you sell your home. Verify with the pest control company that you can transfer the warranty and treatment plan to the new buyer. The next step is to call in a licensed contractor to inspect for existing termite damage. If the inspection turns up any problems, have them fixed.
Can a seller opt not to make any termite repairs?
· 3. Deal with the repairs before you take the home to market. When caught within a year, termite damage doesn’t have to be a deal breaker. According to HomeAdvisor, the national average for the cost of termite treatment is $525, and …
Who pays for termite remediation when selling a house?
· At $30 billion in annual property damage, they are third only to hurricanes and cyclones in the money they cost homeowners. More than 600,000 American homes are damaged each year by termites, costing those homeowners—on average—$3,000 in repair and treatment costs. For these reasons, termites are an important factor in the U.S. real estate ...
Can You terminate a listing agreement with an agent?
Treatment for the entire home ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 or more and often requires tenting the house. Prices may be set as a flat rate or by size, around $5 to $20 per linear foot. However, since tenting only targets the home structure, it might not be effective against underground termite infestations.
What should I ask seller to fix after inspection?
Reasonable requests after a home inspectionMajor electrical issues that are safety or code issues.Plumbing, drainage, sewer, septic, or water issues (or well water issues, if applicable)Mold or water damage.HVAC problems that affect home comfort.Leaking roofs or missing shingles.Termite and pest damage.More items...
Should termite damage be a dealbreaker?
In most cases, termite damage shouldn't be a deal-breaker, unless you find that: — There is an active and unresolved termite infestation. — There is extensive and unresolved structural damage to the home caused by termites.
Who pays for termite treatment buyer or seller California?
In California, as in most states, you as the seller usually cover the cost of the WDO inspection though with many companies, they may offer to do the inspection at no cost with the hope that you'll come back to use their services for future problems.
How do you negotiate after a home inspection?
7 tips for negotiating after a home inspectionHire an experienced real estate agent. ... Only focus on the major repairs. ... Opt for a credit or price reduction instead. ... Think long term. ... Provide supporting documents. ... Ask for a home warranty. ... Be reasonable.
Do termites come back after treatment?
Will termites come back after treatment? Termites may return after treatments. Luckily, companies like Orkin and Terminix promise to re-treat at no extra cost if you have a termite plan with them.
How do you determine the extent of termite damage?
Signs of termite damage include the following:buckling ceilings or walls.the appearance of water damage.maze-like designs in wooden structures.mud tunnels on home foundations.swarms of termites themselves.
How long is a termite inspection good for in California?
two yearsUnder the law, inspection reports and completion notices are valid for two years. This also means all complaints against licensees must be filed with SPCB within two years after the date of the inspection or completion of recommendations.
Do most houses in California have termites?
They're everywhere! Termites are active across the state of California, from Redding to San Francisco, down to Fresno, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Diego. Both subterranean and drywood termites are well-known for damaging homes in California.
What is a termite report?
A termite report is a document provided by a licensed home inspector or pest control company that details their findings after an inspection. These reports reveal whether or not the inspector found any evidence of unwanted guests in your home.
Can you ask for price reduction after inspection?
You can realistically negotiate for anything after a home inspection, but getting the seller to agree to your terms is the real trick. You will need plenty of evidence such as pictures and repair estimates, as often a seller will actually be unaware of the defect in question.
How do I write a letter to the seller after a home inspection?
You want to write clearly and in simple, plain language to get to the heart of what it is you want done. Let the inspection report do the talking. Quote items in the inspection report and give reference numbers for pages or sections of the report where the item appears. Let the inspector's words inform what needs done.
When can I walk away from home inspection?
Anytime you're not satisfied with the negotiations after a home inspection, you can walk away from the home purchase contract. But so you can, you must make sure the contract has an inspection contingency or “due diligence contingency” clause.
Is termite damage irreversible?
In the most severe cases of untreated termite infestation, a colony can cause irreparable damage to a home. In most instances, however, the damage can be fixed and steps can also be taken to eradicate the termites and keep them from returning.
Are termites normal?
Are termites common? Unfortunately, yes. These opportunistic termites are all over the United States, in every state except Alaska. Across the nations, they do about $5 billion worth of damage to homes and other buildings each year.
Are termites common in Kentucky?
More Information about Termites in Kentucky A licensed termite inspector can help identify species not native to the state. In states like Kentucky where termites are fairly active and widespread, it is essential to maintain an effective termite prevention and control program.
What to do when selling a house with termite damage?
Ultimately, deciding what to do when selling a house with termite damage is a personal choice. If you’re looking for a quick sale, and the damage is extensive, it might be best to sell as is. However, if you caught an infestation or damage early, the return on investment for treatment and repairs is often worth the hassle.
How to deal with termite damage?
While the phrase “termite damage” can be scary for buyers, you can take steps as a seller to allay their concerns with a few standard procedures: 1. Pay for a pest inspection. If you suspect there’s even a hint of termite damage in your home, it’s wise to shell out for a pest inspection.
How much does termite treatment cost?
According to HomeAdvisor, the national average for the cost of termite treatment is $525, and most treatments will fall between the range of $217-$868. More involved processes, including tenting and full scale fumigation, can run between $1,200 to $2,500 or more in extreme circumstances.
What to do if you suspect termite damage?
If you suspect there’s even a hint of termite damage in your home, it’s wise to shell out for a pest inspection.
When do termites spawn?
In many instances, you’ll see evidence of the termites themselves before you find the damage they’ve done. When they spawn in the spring, you might find wings or small bodies in your home.
Can you sell a house with a termite warranty?
Disclose known issues, make repairs to remedy any termite damage, and sell your house on the open market with a warranty.
What happens if you don't catch termites?
If you don’t catch termite issues early, or put preventive measures in place, your house (and wallet) could be in trouble. In many instances, you’ll see evidence of the termites themselves before you find the damage they’ve done. When they spawn in the spring, you might find wings or small bodies in your home.
How to protect your home from termites?
Once per month, take a walk around your home and look around the foundation for any termite tubes. Redirect water from hoses or AC drip lines away from the foundation.
What is the problem with Formosan termites?
An invasive species introduced to the United States from China in the twentieth century, the Formosan termite is a major problem. Fast-breeding, voracious, and impossible to ever fully eradicate, Formosan termite colonies can cause tremendous damage compared to other native termite species. Homeowners may have years to discover and treat a native termite colony before there is major damage to their home. When Formosan termites move in, that timeline to significant damage is as short as three months. Unsurprisingly, Americans currently spend $1 billion annually repairing Formosan termite damage—one-fifth of that spent on termite damage total.
Where do termites live?
This is the most widely distributed termite in the United States, with a range from Vermont to Utah. These termites like things humid and moist, and will quickly establish themselves in a home and start to eat away at the structure itself.
Do you have to disclose termites when selling a house?
In others, sellers need to hire a pest professional to inspect their home for termites and termite damage. Homeowners in states with no legislation on the matter still may need to disclose termites or termite history as a stipulation of the buyer’s lender .
How do termites get into a house?
Termites are also drawn inside the home by moisture, wood in contact with house foundations, and cracks in building exteriors. Different combinations of these factors can attract different species.
What factors affect the likelihood of termites in the South?
Geographic location also plays a role in the likelihood of infestations. Warm weather and high humidity make residents in the South more vulnerable to termite activity.
Does homeowners insurance cover termite damage?
No, homeowners insurance doesn’t usually cover termite removal or damage. That’s because termite infestations can generally be prevented through routine home maintenance, which homeowners are responsible for.
What is the best way to kill termites?
These treatments include surface sprays, injected sprays and foams, and borate-treated wood, which is also used in homes to avoid termite infestations.
How long does it take for termites to damage a house?
Experts estimate that it can take around three years for a home with an untreated termite infestation to have noticeable damage.
Can termites cause damage to walls?
Once the home structure has been compromised, water may enter through the termite tunnels causing additional damage. Not only can termites cause structural damage, but they can also cause odor from their fecal pellets, which lead to discoloration and blisters on your walls.
How much does it cost to get rid of termites?
The cost to get rid of termites and repair any damage caused can quickly amount to several thousand dollars. That’s why getting a termite inspection if you see any of the signs listed above should be done immediately. This will help minimize more damage which can happen over time.
Why do you need to inspect your house for termites?
In order for a real estate sale to be finalized, the house and property must be inspected for termites. This inspection is to protect the buyer’s interests so they are not tricked into something they were not aware of.
What is a seller inspection?
As a seller, you should sit this inspection out and allow the inspector and real estate agent to take care of this.
What to keep an eye out for on a house tour?
During the dozens of inevitable house tours you will go on, make sure you keep an eye out for… pest infestations!
Is buying a house scary?
Buying a house can be one of the most exciting AND terrifying experiences of your life. Since this is going to be one of the bigger decisions in life, there’s a lot you need to account for before you sign those papers.
What is a pest management professional?
The pest management professional is going to inspect the entire house, especially areas like the attic and crawlspace. In these commonly infested areas, an infestation will exist if live termites, dead termites, mud tubes, or molted wings are found. An infestation can still exist without obvious clues, which is why the inspector will need to look for visible wood damage as well.
Do you need a termite inspection to sell a house?
Termite inspections are mandated by law for the proper sale of real estate, so it’s best to be familiar with the process if you’re looking to buy or sell a home.
Can termites be in your house?
An active termite infestation is within the house. There is no infestation within the house, but there are signs of an infestation underground. The house was previously treated for an infestation, but could still have termites underground. Termite inspections are mandated by law for the proper sale of real estate, ...
Who pays for termite treatment?
In most cases, termite prevention is paid for by the buyers, and termite treatment is paid for by the seller in the closing costs. However, if the seller listed the house “as is,” the buyers are responsible for all termite damage and future prevention costs.
What does a seller ask about pest control?
Pest control and wood-destroying organisms in this report ask the seller if they are aware of any termites, ants, or other wood-destroying pests in the home. It also asks if there has ever been damage that resulted from any of these wood-destroying pests or organisms.
What is the worst type of termite?
Subterranean termites live in the dirt and build large colonies in the ground, eating fences and trees as well as homes. These are the worst type of termites because they build the biggest nests and can do the most damage.
Do termites eat wood?
Not only do termites eat the wood in the walls and floors, but they can also infest your furniture and even your crops. The damage typically depends on the type of termite and the type of wood in the house. Subterranean termites are the worst and can do a lot of damage in a short amount of time.
Do you have to pay for termite inspection?
Even if it is not required, the seller may take it upon themselves to pay for the termite inspection and any remedies that need to be done. This is often a good selling point and will prevent any problems that may occur down the road after the home is sold. Nobody wants to sell a home to someone if they know it has a major problem like termite damage.
What is section one in a termite inspection?
In a termite inspection report, the inspector will list the outcome as section one or section two. Section one is termite treatment and should be paid for by the seller. Section two is considered as termite prevention and should be paid for by the buyer.
What items must be listed and checked for defects?
Any appliances and items that remain with the home must be listed and checked for defects
What does an agent do when selling a home?
An agent serves as your advocate during the home selling process, and they can't advocate for you if they're not communicating with you! Most good agents return calls promptly and seek your feedback before any decision related to your home, and providing regular updates about it progress on the market. Be upfront with your agent about what type of communication you prefer and how often. If you're not getting the communication you desire after this conversation, think about switching agents.
What happens if you don't list with another agent?
If you're civil and don't list with another agent behind their back, you'll have a much better chance of your current agent letting you off the hook. At this point, you can ask to be assigned to another agent within the same brokerage, or ask to get out of the contract altogether.
What is unethical behavior in real estate?
Unethical Behavior. While most real estate agents strive to be above board on ethics, occasionally a situation may arise that you deem unethical in your agent' s behavior. This may include going back on their commission rates, or promising a buyer something you don't agree with.
Is it hard to be a real estate agent?
While it may be tempting to push through a major personality clash between you and your agent, consider that this is likely one of the biggest money exchanges you'll experience over your lifetime. You want it to run smoothly and that includes being in sync with the person who helps make it all happen — your real estate agent.
What is marketing in real estate?
Marketing is one of the top offerings provided by a real estate agent and that includes exposure online through sites like Zillow, Trulia, and multiple listing service (MLS) sites. If you hop on the Internet and can't manage to find anything about your home for sale, you should be skeptical that your agent is holding up their end of the bargain and consider jumping ship.
How long does an exclusive listing contract last?
It is common for the agreement to expire on its own within a certain period — like six months — in which the seller can opt for another agent without penalty. The contract may also list a cancellation fee to end the contract early.
What is an exclusive listing agreement?
There are two kinds of exclusive listing agreements. Exclusive right-to-sell agreements compensate a listing agent with a commission regardless of how the buyer was found. Exclusive agency agreements withhold compensation to the agent if the seller is the one who ultimately finds a buyer on their own.
What is section 1 in a termite inspection?
Section 1. Termite inspection reports describe items as either "Section 1" or "Section 2". Section 1 items typically fall into the closing costs for the seller, meaning sellers pay for these treatments. This includes the cost of remediation, like tenting or spraying to eliminate an active termite infestation.
How much does a termite inspection cost in California?
In California and in almost all other states, sellers pay termite inspection costs. The cost is typically inexpensive, ranging from $50 to $150. Some termite companies even offer a free inspection in the hopes that they'll earn your business and can handle any necessary (and more expensive) treatment.
Do banks require termite certificates?
Because of this, it's very common for a bank to ask for a termite certificate prior to funding a loan. As with most things, this point is negotiable so buyers should be prepared to ask for a contingency stating the seller pays for a termite inspection, treatment, or both - even on an as-is sale.
What is an as is sale?
An as-is sale occurs when the seller is not willing to make any repairs or spend money on any treatments. A seller opting not to make any termite repairs can actually cause issues for a buyer seeking a bank loan. Why? Since the home will become part of the bank's collateral, the bank doesn't want termites damaging it. Because of this, it's very common for a bank to ask for a termite certificate prior to funding a loan. As with most things, this point is negotiable so buyers should be prepared to ask for a contingency stating the seller pays for a termite inspection, treatment, or both - even on an as-is sale. Another option is for the buyer to pay for it themselves, but if the seller is eager to close, they'll be willing to pick up the tab.
Do you have to pay for termite inspection?
As the seller, you should expect to pay for the termite inspection cost and Section 1 termite treatment. If you negotiate an offer that states you are not responsible for paying for Section 1 remediation, make sure the buyer tracks whether or not the bank requires a termite certificate.
