Selling a House with Storm Damage In California

Roof damage is often a key concern for homeowner’s post-storm. Strong winds can dislodge shingles and lead to water infiltration, posing significant problems. In severe cases, the entire roof may be blown away, leaving the property vulnerable.

Typically, minor repairs for missing shingles can cost $800 to $950, while a full roof replacement could range from $5,000 to $10,000, varying based on home size. It’s suggested to consult your insurance provider to determine if coverage is available for these costly repairs.

Just like your roof, your house’s siding can get seriously damaged by hail or powerful winds from a storm. Your siding may crack or get torn off.

Since sidings shield your house from the outside, not fixing them can put your insulation at risk. It could also lead to bugs moving in and water wrecking things.

Typically, fixing siding can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,100, depending on how bad the damage is, what it’s made of, and where you are.

The gutters on your property gather rainwater and channel it away to safeguard the base of your home. If water gets in, your base can weaken over time, leading to structural issues in your home, like problems with the frame, windows, and doors.

It’s essential to deal with gutter damage promptly to avoid potential water-related issues. Typically, repairing minor gutter damage can cost between $200 and $500. However, if you need to replace all your gutters, it could set you back as much as $3,000.

During a storm, powerful winds may move or twist your windows. In severe instances, they could break or completely shatter. This risk applies to glass doors as well.

Additionally, water may seep into your doors, making them hard to shut. Repairing storm-damaged windows and doors, including addressing water damage, can cost anywhere from $50 to over $1,500.

In real estate, selling to a cash buyer or investor is often the quickest and easiest way to unload a damaged property. Many sellers prefer this route.

These buyers, who operate outside the traditional market, typically make offers within 48 hours and can close in as little as seven days. This is particularly beneficial if your property is in poor condition, and you need immediate funds to relocate.

One major advantage of working with cash buyers and investors is that they buy properties in any condition, including those damaged by storms. While you could attempt to sell such a property on the open market, the process is usually faster when dealing with experienced cash buyers.

Furthermore, there’s greater certainty when dealing with cash buyers. Since most traditional buyers struggle to secure mortgages for heavily damaged properties, cash buyers, who don’t rely on financing, can swiftly take care of any major issues.

The process of selling to a cash buyer is straightforward. Simply reach out to them or complete a form to receive a cash offer, review the contract, and sign to close the deal. Your funds will typically be deposited into your bank account on the chosen closing day. In many cases, cash buyers will inspect the property before finalizing their offer to ensure accuracy.

You could collaborate with a real estate agent specializing in selling damaged houses. These agents are well-versed in all facets of property transactions, including pricing strategies, presentation, advertising, and deal-making. Nevertheless, real estate agents typically charge a 6% commission.

If you opt for an agent-assisted sale, be prepared for a potentially lengthy process, possibly spanning months or even years, particularly if you sell your storm-damaged house as is. Agents list properties on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and most buyers prefer homes that are move-in ready.

A property auctioneer manages a real estate operation by selling damaged houses through auctions. They compile property details into auction catalogs and promote them to attract more bids, akin to the marketing methods used by real estate agents.

When selling a property through a property auctioneer, you must establish a minimum selling price. If the bids received do not surpass this price, the property will be sold at the minimum.

Property auctions conducted by auctioneers can occur either online or in person, with the highest bidder securing the purchase.