Over the past few years, we’ve had a few homes that we sold that had vines and weeds on the exterior of the home. As an experienced Brooklyn real estate team, The Behfar Team has seen firsthand how exterior maintenance directly impacts inspections and final sale prices. In one home, the seller was actually surprised when the home inspector recommended having them removed as they are not good for the health of the home’s structure. Let’s explore and delve into it more.
While vines on exterior walls may look charming, they can cause structural damage to a home. Weeds and invasive plants tend to grow into cracks, expanding them over time and allowing moisture to seep in, which may lead to mold and mildew. Vines can also trap moisture against walls, accelerating decay in wooden or brick surfaces. Additionally, they may attract pests, such as insects and rodents, creating further issues.
As trusted real estate brokers in Brooklyn, we always advise sellers preparing for the market, especially in the Midwood real estate market, Madison, Brooklyn real estate, and among Marine Park neighborhood specialists, to address exterior vegetation before listing. Proactive maintenance protects both your home’s value and your negotiating position.
Regularly removing weeds and managing vine growth helps protect a home’s structural integrity and curb appeal, saving homeowners from potentially expensive repairs and maintenance. Vines, scrubbings, and greenery on the exterior walls of a home may look charming, but they can lead to serious issues. These plants trap moisture against the walls, which promotes mold, mildew, and rot, damaging the structure. Their roots can penetrate cracks, widening them and compromising the wall’s integrity.
At The Behfar Team, we believe in a transparent home-buying process in Brooklyn. That means educating both buyers and sellers about issues that may arise during inspections so there are no surprises. Our goal is always to deliver an elite and transparent real estate experience rooted in Brooklyn real estate with integrity.
Garage Maintenance
Garages are an interesting thing. I find that many people who maintain their home very well also maintain their garage very well. As a trusted Brooklyn real estate team with heart, The Behfar Team often notes that the condition of a garage reflects overall property care. I can usually tell if a homeowner is meticulous by looking at the exterior of their home and at their garage. That being said, many people just don’t use the garage besides just storage, so they don’t put too much emphasis on garage maintenance, despite how important it is.
Basic garage maintenance is important as when you do eventually want to sell, it can add value to your home. When the buyer wants to check your home, the home inspector always checks out the garage and makes sure that it’s dry and the roof is intact. As a Brooklyn real estate broker serving Midwood, Madison & Marine Park, we consistently see how small maintenance issues can influence negotiations and final offers. Usually, if there’s small holes or openings, moisture builds up whenever it rains. While it may not interfere on a daily basis, termites love moisture and they end up getting some sort of potential termite damage in the garage.
A well-maintained garage can add value and functionality to a home, but neglecting it can lead to costly repairs. Winter months especially demand extra care, as cold weather can affect garage doors, hinges, and seals. Regularly inspecting the garage door opener, lubricating moving parts, and checking for any drafts or gaps can help maintain energy efficiency and security. Also, make sure to organize and clear any clutter that may become hazardous.
For homeowners buying a home in Brooklyn or selling a home in Brooklyn, preparation matters. The Behfar Team is dedicated to helping families find homes in Brooklyn and guiding sellers with transparent negotiations and trusted advice. By keeping the garage in good condition, homeowners ensure it remains a useful and attractive feature, enhancing overall property appeal and market value, especially in competitive areas with Brooklyn homes for sale.
At The Behfar Team, we are proud to provide heart-and-soul real estate service and remain committed to putting clients first in Brooklyn real estate, helping families create new chapters with care, trust, and proven local expertise.