TAKE THE GAMBLE OUT OF AN ADDRESS CHANGE!

Are you thinking of selling your home or purchasing a home sometime in the near future? The thought of getting used to a new home and neighborhood can be overwhelming. A great way for sellers to impress buyers who are out shopping and comparing homes and to smooth the way for a new resident is to compile a detailed folder containing all the pertinent information about your home, your neighborhood, and your community! The most necessary information for any new resident will, of course, be about the operation of your home. This section of your folder should contain instructions such as location of water, gas and electric meters, utility strut-off valves, septic tank accesses, and irrigation timers and controls. It should include any operating manuals and system warranties, the companies which installed the systems or companies familiar with servicing them. In addition, include information about appliances and mechanical systems, their corresponding manuals and service companies as well as any recommendations.

Take the time to label your electric meter box with information about which fuses control which circuits and systems. (Imagine a confused new resident attempting to figure it out!) Your information folder can also contain specifics about service people you have employed and would recommend, such as plumbers, gardeners, pool care companies, and handymen. In addition, information concerning the local (responsible!) baby-sitters or child care providers, the Neighborhood Watch Captain, car pools and pet sitters. All these things will be appreciated by a new homeowner.