Shelter Island Market Report - Home Safety and Real Estate

When I am guiding my clients through listing their property for sale or for rent, the safety of prospective customers and brokers who are entering the property is at the top of the list. This also involves other potential safety concerns that might pose complications during a transaction through a home inspection and an appraisal.

No one knows a home and property better than an owner, but sometimes an objective eye sees things from a different perspective.

These are just a few of the items I take a close look at:

· Steps: Railroad ties, rustic stone steps and bricks can be uneven or require mortar to secure and wood steps or outdoor paths with moss or algae can be slippery.

· Staircase rails: If there is a drop of more than 3 feet, a rail may be needed. In many homes built before codes were revised, rails can have openings that can create a safety hazard.

· Decks: rails and steps are important on decks, as are seating. I have seen a few decks that have built in benches with drop offs of over 4 feet.

· Pools: Shelter Island Town has rigorous rules concerning fences and gates. In addition to this, diving boards can pose insurance challenges in both sales and rentals. I advise clients to have them removed and put away.

· Fuel: Having once had an oven explode, I am conscious of fuel odors. I advise clients to have propane fueled ranges, heating devices and tanks examined or maintained.

· Storage areas: While clean areas sell a home more effectively, clearing debris, construction materials and hazardous fluids and stowing away tools from garage and basement is wise.

· Recreational items: Locking up guns, archery equipment and putting away or dismantling in-ground trampolines or easy to access gymnastic equipment.

· Home décor: Large items hung on walls such as mirrors and decorative items, especially on staircases or in passageways should be hung with care so that they are secure and the weight of the item is considered. At a rental property several years ago, a large mirror in a staircase came crashing off the wall in front of customers. Fortunately no one was harmed.

· Nature: Poison ivy, ticks, wasps nests are only three things that can pose problems. Having landscaping professionals take a close look is wise.

The Sellers and Landlords who take the time to examine all areas of their home before inviting the public to tour not only reflect their property in a more positive light, but also avoid potential complications.

Penelope Moore, Licensed Associate RE Broker - Saunders & Associates - PMoore@saunders.com

(917) 208-5519 | (631) 749-5801 - www.PenelopeMoore.com