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What should I include in a note for the next person buying my house?
Leftover Maintenance Notes: Include a brief note on any regular maintenance tasks, such as when the last roof inspection occurred or if the HVAC system was serviced recently.
This helps the new owner keep track of important upkeep.
Appliance Manuals: Provide any manuals or warranties for appliances.
Many homeowners appreciate having detailed operation instructions for devices they may not be familiar with.
Utility Information: Share information about where the main water shut-off valve and electrical panel are located.
Knowing how to access these points can be crucial during emergencies.
Local Utilities: Include contact information for local utility providers for water, electricity, gas, and internet services to make the transition smoother for the new owners.
Neighborhood Insights: Offer tips on the best local parks, restaurants, and hiding spots for community resources.
These small insights can make a new place feel welcoming.
Trash and Recycling: Provide instructions on the local trash and recycling schedule, including where bins are usually stored and any specific guidelines the township might have.
Key and Code Locations: If any doors have keypad locks or smart home devices, leave the codes and instructions before moving out to avoid creating access issues for the new owners.
Gardening Tips: If you have a garden or lawn, offer tips about seasonal care, including watering routines and any specific plants that require special attention.
Important Dates: If any maintenance tasks are due soon, provide a note outlining what should be done and when.
For example, reminding about annual gutter cleaning or landscaping can be beneficial.
Custom Features: Write about any personalized features of the house, such as custom shelving or window treatments, and how they were designed or installed, if applicable.
Previous Improvements: Document any significant home improvement projects, such as electrical or plumbing upgrades, and when they were completed.
A record of these improvements can add assurance of the home's condition.
Noise Considerations: If the property has any noise issues from nearby roads or neighbors, offering insight into peak times or potential solutions can be a courtesy to the new residents.
Pest Management: Inform the new owners about past pest control incidences and preventative measures taken.
Transparency regarding prior pest issues can prevent the new owners from being caught off guard.
Hazard Alerts: If there are any known hazards, such as low overhangs or slippery steps, mentioning them proactively can save the new owners from accidents.
Accessing Internet/IoT Devices: Provide a list of usernames and passwords for devices like smart thermostats, lights, or security cameras since these often require reauthentication.
Seasonal Changes: Demystify local climate quirks, such as snow removal expectations or summertime insect issues that new residents might not be used to.
Community Connections: If you have established relationships with neighbors or local service providers (like plumbers or electricians), consider leaving their contact information to help the new owners get settled.
Special Features of the House: If any features of the house—like a hidden storage area or vintage wiring—could be beneficial to know, include those specifics for the new owners.
Local Wildlife: If your yard is frequented by specific wildlife, share details about which animals are common and any steps taken to coexist in your garden space.
Personal Touch: Leaving behind a friendly note wishing the new owners well in their new home adds a personal touch and reflects a positive attitude about passing the torch.
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