SW Florida Real Estate - Mold Issue? Don't Panic!

Too many times a buyer or seller find themselves in absolute confusion and worry about mold issues. A home inspection finds patches on a ceiling, an air conditioner maintenance person finds mold around the intake unit, a buyer sees what they think to be mold around a window etc.
Yes, mold does definitely exist in this world and specifically in humid climates like SW Florida but not every situation is as bad as one may think. Has the home been vacant for a long time? Has the AC and/or humidistat been kept at appropriate settings? Has there been water leaks and/or damage? Getting the most information from owners, listing agents and inspectors is essential to determining the level of concern. Not every home with a mold concern demands mitigation that costs thousands of dollars. Often it is just a matter of a good cleaning or Scrubber machine that pulls mold spores out of the environment.

Example:
Home tested positive for mold. The home did have a prior roof leak but the roof had since been replaced and was cleaned and sitting vacant except for the window treatments. Turns out the cloth window treatments had not been cleaned and dead mold spores were hanging out on them. A 24 hour Scrubber machine was brought in and the problem was resolved.
Example:
A Home inspection found "mold" and the sellers got two opinions from mold inspection companies that quoted them between $5,000-$10,000 to mitigate. The sellers went to one other company who I referred them to and they simply needed the Scrubber and a little cleaning due to the home standing vacant for a year and it cost the sellers approximately $1000.

This is not to say that there are not properties with major mold problems.
I recently previewed a condo with a customer and we had to leave immediately because the mold was everywhere. Walls, ceilings, windows and there was evidence of water damage as noted at the front door and perimeter. Even the lock box was rusting and the keys inside were corroded. Obviously that unit was going to need some serious work.

If you are a seller thinking of putting your home on the market, make an assessment of the state of your home. Is it as clean as can be? Do old leak stains need to be "Kilzed" and repainted? Have you looked at your AC intake unit and air vents lately? Clean, clean, clean before you open the doors for potential sellers. If you suspect a mold issue in your home, address the issue before an emotional buyer does.

But whether you are a seller or buyer, my main message is, don't panic. Get a professional assessment. If the result is worrisome and appears costly, get another opinion or two. There are many inspectors out there but not all have certifications and/or expertise with mold. Use your real estate agent for professsional and reputable referrals. I know I have a short list of inspectors that I refer to because I know they are not only experienced, reputable and cost effective, but they offer calm support to what otherwise can be a stressful situation.

Helping smooth the way for a successful and happy real estate transaction...
Lisa Farina-Lopez
239-287-6005