Septic System Education for Real Estate Professionals

Septic System Education for Real Estate Professionals

Step One is Understanding How Septic Systems Work

A septic system is an on-site wastewater treatment facility commonly used in rural and suburban areas, and anywhere city-provided sewage treatment isn’t available. In Central Florida, that includes many homes because of the numerous lakes in the area.

Septic systems efficiently process and treat household wastewater. They consist of pipes from the home, the septic tank, the pump station, and the drain field (or leach field). Buyers should be prepared to get a septic inspection done before signing on the line to get a good assessment of all of the septic elements. Real estate agents must be well-versed in the basic components of septic systems to provide accurate information to clients.

The Septic Tank’s Job

The septic tank is responsible for separating solids from wastewater. As wastewater flows into the tank, solids settle at the bottom, forming sludge. In contrast, the wastewater stays at the top, ready to be flushed out.

Bacteria help keep the sludge layer and solids in line until the next scheduled pump-out (every 3-5 years). Understanding the tank’s purpose and maintenance needs is vital for real estate professionals to communicate this information effectively to potential buyers.

That Drain Field Operation

After treatment in the septic tank, the treated wastewater drainfield, where it undergoes further filtration through soil. The drain field needs adequate space away from the home, large trees, and enough soil to adequately treat the wastewater before it’s released into the local water table.

This is where septic system education for real estate professionals comes in handy. As a real estate agent, you should be able to spot red flags (like large trees or structures over the drain field of standing water) that indicate a septic issue. This can help you inform your buyer or seller of the following steps before it holds up a potential sale.

Septic System Maintenance

While homeowners will (and SHOULD) lean on a local septic professional for their maintenance needs and questions, it starts with the real estate agent.

Having a working knowledge of septic maintenance can help you field preliminary questions during the buying or selling process, putting clients at ease. In the real estate profession, half the battle is instilling confidence in a buyer’s decision to buy, and that comes with knowing the answers.

Regular Pumping

One critical aspect of septic system maintenance is regular pumping. Real estate agents should inform clients about the recommended septic tank pumping frequency, which typically ranges from every 3 to 5 years. Agents should also know where the tank is currently in that range. Will the buyer need to have it pumped immediately after purchasing the home?

Water Conservation

Educate homebuyers about the impact of water usage on septic systems. Encourage the adoption of water conservation practices, such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and spreading out laundry and dishwasher usage. This promotes environmental responsibility and helps maintain the balance within the septic system.

Additionally, septic systems are installed with household size in mind. If the family selling the home has four people and the buyer’s has eight people — that’s a big difference. To set them up for success, ensure the septic tank can handle that size of the household. And if it can’t, what adjustments need to be made?

Selling a Home with a Septic System – Marketing Tips

Effectively communicating septic system information fosters transparency and trust between real estate professionals and potential homebuyers. Implementing clear and concise communication strategies ensures that clients fully understand the significance of a septic system.

Incorporate Septic System Information in Property Listings

Real estate agents can highlight the presence of a septic system in property listings, emphasizing it as a valuable feature. Providing key details, such as the tank’s size, the last pumping date, and any recent inspections, gives potential buyers a comprehensive overview.

A septic system can be a big hurdle for those searching for the perfect lake home. Put homebuyers at ease by letting them know it’s already installed and properly maintained.

Educational Materials for Homebuyers

Create informational pamphlets or digital resources that prospective homebuyers can access. Include details on septic system basics, maintenance requirements, and contact information for local septic service providers. Distributing these materials demonstrates a commitment to buyer education and sets the foundation for responsible homeownership.

Collaborate with Septic Professionals

Foster relationships with local septic service providers. A network of trusted professionals allows real estate agents to connect buyers with experts for inspections, maintenance, and repairs. This collaboration adds value to the overall homebuying experience.

And if you require a speedy repair or inspection to close a deal, you’ll already know who to call! At Advanced Septic Services we understand the local area and are ready to help. Call us today at (352) 242-6100.

Real Estate Professionals Should Know About Septic Systems

Septic system education for real estate professionals is critical to an agent’s job. Real estate professionals can enhance their credibility, build trust with clients, and contribute to responsible homeownership by having the knowledge.