Getting Your Electrical System Ready Before Selling Your Home

Getting Your Electrical System Ready Before Selling Your Home

May 06, 2019

Putting your house on the market is a big decision. Negotiating prices can be a frustrating process, and it can be even more disappointing when you get far less than your asking price. Homeowners will often spend a fortune making improvements to their property so they can receive a higher value at selling time. Unfortunately, many people neglect to include their electrical systems in their renovation budget. At Mr. Electric of Dallas, we enjoy helping our North Texas clients get the most from their electrical systems. If you’re considering selling your home, be sure to make the following adjustments to make your property more attractive to today’s savvy buyers. 

Schedule a Professional Inspection

The most important task is to hire an electrician for a professional electrical inspection. Most areas will require that your home’s system is up to current codes before you’re legally allowed to sell the property. A certified, licensed electrician will be well aware of all local, state and federal electrical regulations, and can help ensure that your wiring, circuits and other major electrical components are safe and modernized. 

Replace Aluminum Wiring

If you have an older home that was built before the 1970’s, there’s a chance you have aluminum wiring. Even if a previous owner upgraded part of their electrical system, there may be remnants of aluminum wiring present in some hidden areas of the home. Keeping aluminum wiring presents a major fire hazard, so it’s important to update where needed to ensure you pass along a safe property to the next owner. 

Take Care of Ungrounded and Non-GFCI Outlets

Again, if you live in an older home, you may be missing required elements of modern electrical systems. Grounded circuits help prevent electrocutions and power surges by sending excess electrical energy into the ground wires and away from outlets. GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter circuits are also a vital safety feature. They are used in areas of the home where excessive moisture is common, particularly bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and basements. If you have ungrounded or non-GFCI outlets, it’s important to upgrade before placing your home on the market. Not having these items in place will be a red flag to any educated home buyer. 

Upgrade to 200-Amp Service

Upgrading to 200-Amp electrical service isn’t required, but it can be a major selling point. Most homes that were built in the past only have a 100-Amp electrical service panel. However, today’s modern families require a lot of power to fuel their tools, appliances, equipment and other electronic devices. Since the use of technology is likely to continue increasing, many buyers will be happy to know you’ve already taken care of this upgrade for them. 

Improve Home Value with Smart Appliances and Integrations

If you’re really looking to make your home a top pick for smart purchasers, then consider upgrading to smart appliances, outlets, thermostats, security features and lighting systems. Smart homes are becoming more and more popular and for good reason. Smart technology allows families to defend their home and control their electrical consumption, even when they’re away at the office or on vacation. This can be a major selling point for people who are wanting a long-term investment. 

Need Help with Your Electrical System? Call Mr. Electric of Dallas 

Are you getting ready to sell your DFW home? Then get the help you need from the certified electricians at Mr. Electric of Dallas. We offer electrical inspections, wiring upgrades, outlet replacements, smart home system installation and more. Contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.