When selling your home, you often need to first do perform some repairs and maintenance. Some of these you can do yourself if you have the time but many need special tools that repairmen tend to have in their toolboxes. Also, many people just can’t find the time to make repairs.

According to Angie’s List, hiring a handyman can prevent waste and overcharging, as the handyman will only charge you for hours worked. Plus they keep their rates low with low overhead and by not having to pay other workers.

Handyman Work

Most handyman work is relatively simple. It can be simple carpentry work or painting. It doesn’t typically involve major construction or expansion of the home. When you think you’re going to more extensive work, you should consider a contractor. Contractors supervise specialized tradespeople such as plumbers, electricians, and craftsmen. Contractors can put together a teal to expand your house or make major remodeling changes.

Before you hire a handyman or a contractor, make a list of the jobs you need done. If your list is composed mostly of repairs and some updating like painting, a handyman should suit your needs.

Deciding On the Best Repair Person

• Get recommendations from family, friends, or your real estate professional. She or he may know an individual or company that specializes in “make-ready,” a room-by-room clean-up, touch-up and fix-up. You can also contact sites such as HomeAdvisor or Angie’s List, to hire workmen.
• Interview several handymen before making your decision. Make sure the handyman you hire has the experience and equipment to do the jobs you need and is willing to guarantee the work.
• You want someone you’ll feel comfortable having around your family and in your home. Hire only personnel who are bonded and insured.
• Inspect the work while it’s in progress and when it’s finished. Most professionals want to do a good job out of pride of workmanship. Handymen also rely heavily on referrals, so if you’re pleased, you’ll recommend the handyman to your family and friends.

What you don’t want to do is leave small repairs undone. Home buyers notice if maintenance has been ignored, and may conclude the home needs greater repair than it actually does. I once considered purchasing a house that needed a new furnace but the seller refused to make the repair. It cost hi the sale.

Making Home Repairs to Sell your Home by Brian Kline | Realty Biz News