NEWARK Blog

How Home Energy Audits Can Help You Sell Your Home

When you put your home on the market, you want it to sell for the highest price possible. Making minor repairs and updates like a fresh coat of paint can make a difference, but most buyers are concerned about issues beyond the cosmetic. In an era of soaring energy prices, knowing that the property is energy efficient is at the top of any buyer's mind. A home energy audit, in which the home is professionally inspected for potential energy leaks, can help you market your home and give buyers peace of mind.

The Benefits of a Home Energy Audit

During a home energy audit, an inspector looks for issues that could cause excessive energy consumption. They inspect doors, windows, walls, siding, and the basement and attic for leaks or structural problems that cause energy loss. They also check the furnace and water heater, inspect insulation, and check the lighting.

After an inspection, you'll know which areas in your home need repairs or upgrades to reduce wasted energy. Making those changes before listing can help justify a higher asking price if you plan to sell. Providing a home energy audit report can also give you a competitive advantage over other properties.

A home energy audit may also give home buyers more purchasing power. Showing lenders that they will save money on energy costs by purchasing your home may help them secure a larger mortgage since they'll be able to afford a higher payment. Some lenders also offer additional mortgage funding to buyers to make upgrades. Showing evidence of what needs to be done in the form of an audit report can support their application.

What Type of Energy Audit Should You Have and When?

Home energy audits should be conducted before putting your home on the market since they may reveal issues that need to be included in the disclosures, such as a furnace on its last leg. If you aren't selling right away, you can schedule a home energy audit before making significant changes or upgrades, like new windows. The inspector may uncover additional issues that should be addressed first, otherwise, your upgrades might not be as beneficial as you expect.

A home energy audit might include several types of tests in addition to room-by-room inspections. A blower test reveals leaks and checks the home's airtightness by increasing air pressure indoors. A thermal scan uses an infrared camera to check the surface temperatures throughout and identify areas that require additional insulation. Finally, a PFT air infiltration test reveals leaks and the presence of gases like radon.

Make your home more appealing to buyers with a home energy audit from Koala Insulation of Newark in New Castle County, DE. This licensed and insured company has served homeowners for over 15 years with detailed energy efficiency inspections and insulation installation. You can count on them for a thorough evaluation and accurate assessment. Learn more about audits on their website, or call (302) 273-8476 to schedule an evaluation.