General Info:
PROPERTY PRESERVATION When a property moves to REO status, the focus shifts from simply protecting and maintaining it, to marketing and selling the property as quickly as possible. August contractors secure the property, re-key all doors, remove debris and complete a full maid-service cleaning of the interior of the home. Depending on the season, the grass will be cut or the water lines will be winterized. The property will be inspected for damages, pool areas will be secured and emergency conditions, such as basement flooding or roof damage, will be addressed immediately. The contractor also will notify the real estate listing agent when the initial services have been completed so that the agent can immediately begin marketing the property. SECURING Time is critical when properties are being prepared to sell. August Contractors requires that all REO properties be secured on an initial services order. In addition to protecting the property, timely securing means that real estate brokers and appraisers can begin to do their jobs sooner, and a buyer can be found more quickly. Generally, when securing a property all locks, including deadbolts, will be changed and keyed to a client-specific code. All outbuildings and sheds will be padlocked. Pool areas will be secured and the fences surrounding the pool will be padlocked. A lockbox will be installed with working keys inside to facilitate access for contractors, inspectors and real estate agents. Openings such as broken windows and doors or unsecured crawlspaces that pose a security risk to the property may be boarded consistent with FHA standards. DEBRIS REMOVAL & CLEAN UP SERVICE Cluttered and dirty properties don’t attract homebuyers. Safeguard’s goal is to make a house clean and appealing to prospective buyers so they can envision themselves living there. Contractors will remove all interior and exterior debris from the property, based on client-specific instructions. If personal items are present at the property, contractors will submit a bid to remove and store for 30 days, and will proceed according to the client’s instructions. August Contractors generally does not recommend proceeding with removing debris until personal items have been addressed. After debris is removed, the house receives a complete cleaning. The contractor follows a detailed checklist that includes: mopping all hard-surface floors and vacuuming carpets; wiping all baseboards, light switches and outlet covers; wiping vents and ducts and removing cobwebs; cleaning sinks and toilets; wiping kitchen and bathroom counters, cabinets and drawers; removal of dirty, non-washable window covers