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HomeOwner Tips: Replace your AC Air Filters Please

By Doug Francis

Dirty Air FilterLet’s just agree that I have shown over 250 homes this year… probably more but that’s enough.

Most have been professionally cleaned, painted, professionally staged, filmed, perfumed, and totally spiffed up.

Yes, these babies are ready for HGTV with the camera crew and snarky comments, ready to be added to Pinterest boards around the globe, and ready for a qualified, ready, willing and able buyer to see.

Yet, in my observations, close to 50% of them haven’t changed the furnace or AC air filters in the past year. Oy!

In many newer homes these filters are located at the return air returns (not at the furnace) so they are easy to replace. REALLY easy to replace.

Owners of new homes should replace filters monthly!

Those air filters are easily visible to the trained eye of someone who has looked at 250 homes with clients in the past eight months.

Air Filter dirt

100% dust!

All that extra cleaning is now going to viewed a bit more sceptically because those buyers know the truth… you house was/is dirty and your HVAC system was probably working  three times as hard as necessary to move half the air.

I am not an expert on HVAC systems, but I do own a vacuum and know it doesn’t suck up the dirt very well when the bag is full.

Get my point?

This is probably a tip for home sellers too. Take care of your HVAC system and change those filters because any smart home buyer will include a home inspection contingency… and a clogged up, neglected air filter may be the tip-off that there are other problems lurking in your house. Home Inspectors are looking for red flags…

So, take a look today and make sure you are keeping your house clean and cool.

Filed Under: Blog, Home Seller Tips

About Doug Francis

A seasoned Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug has seen consumer behavior, negotiations and communication styles change. At his original brokerage, he was the first agent to add an email address. Imagine! Outside real estate, he plays tennis, is a Washington Capitals fan, spends time with Skipper (his dog), and enjoys the restaurant scene in the DCA. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

Vienna real estate agent Doug Francis

When we bought our house in Vienna, we were thinking about raising the kids, building an addition, and knowing the neighbors. Today, home buyers are attracted to Vienna because of the sense of community, walkability, and small town lifestyle.

So, what’s next after your 25 years? It’s a conversation many of my clients are having with me as they plan to move to the beach, travel, or get closer to grandkids. Helping them see their future, sell their current home, and move ahead with their updated plan has been an interesting new chapter.

My background: I am an active licensed agent in Virginia, have negotiated hundreds of sales contracts, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and still sell homes in all price ranges. I donate to the Town of Vienna tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Let’s discuss your moving plans: Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 .  Cheers!

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About Doug Francis

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I'm licensed in Virginia with a focus on Vienna, VA real estate since 1991.

That deep knowledge is valuable, especially in today's fast-paced market where advice is critical. Although many of my clients are personally referred, I am available to help you too and am accepting new clients right now.

Feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!

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Doug: (703) 304-6827

TTR Sotheby's International Realty
6723 Whittier Avenue McLean, VA 22101

Office: 703-319-3344
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