Having a house fire is an extremely traumatic experience that no one should have to go through. If this has unfortunately happened to you, you may be wondering what to do next. There are many steps and approaches to take. We’re here to go over a few of them with you. Here's exactly what to do with your fire damaged home.

What to Do If You’ve Experienced a House Fire

1. Determine ​​Which Parts of the Home Are Salvageable

The first step is to work with your local firefighting team. They can help you determine what items are salvageable. Also, which ones can be safely removed from the home. Depending on the severity of the fire, this could be several items or maybe just a few.

They can also give you a better idea of how bad the damage really is. They can inform you of any sections of your home that will need to be rebuilt. Also, if there are any walls that need to be knocked down. Maybe the fire damaged home should be demolished altogether. 

2. Talk to Your Homeowners’ Insurance Agent

Never assume that someone else is going to contact your insurance company. It is important to contact them as soon as you can to quickly begin the insurance claim process. Your agent will be experienced in dealing with property emergencies. They can help direct you to lodging options and home restoration companies. They may also be able to provide coverage for loss of personal items from the fire.

If you don’t have homeowners insurance, you’ll most likely have to pay for the price of the damage yourself. However, there are other options. You may consider hiring an attorney if the fire was not your fault.

3. Decide Whether to Restore Your Home or Sell It

It is definitely understandable if you decide to keep your home and restore it to what it once was. After all, there are countless memories that a home can hold. If you decide to go this route, you will need to get several quotes from contractors. You may need to evaluate if you want to take on any DIY projects. You will need to work closely with your insurance agent. Furthermore, you will need to budget how much the repairs will cost. Likewise, you need to keep in mind the time-frame for renovations. 

If this sounds like too much to handle, you may feel that it’s time to start fresh and sell your home. Below is a list of different selling options to consider.

Selling Options for a Fire Damaged Home

For Sale by Owner

One of the top benefits of selling by owner is that you are in full control of the sale. If you have the time, this can be a great option. You won’t have to worry about fees or commissions. It is also convenient. You will be the one negotiating and can answer the buyers’ questions, instead of feeling like you’re the middle-man.

However, if you don’t have much time and prefer not to make repairs, you may want to look at other options.

Selling Through a Real Estate Agent

Depending on the damage to the home, selling through a real estate agent may be an option. It could take a big weight off of your shoulders. Because you pay real estate fees, your agent is in charge of doing the marketing. It makes sure that your home is property listed.  

The downside is that this comes with a price. You will also most likely need to make home repairs before your property is ready to be listed.

Selling Your Home to a Cash Buyer

Last but not least, you may want to sell your home to a cash buyer. If you do have time to make repairs, then this option is your best bet. You can sell your home as-is without having to worry about fixing the place up.

A cash buyer will do a walk-through of your home and give you an offer based on its value. Not only is it a fast process, but also a convenient one. It will save you multiple headaches.

​​A quick house sale could be your ticket out. If this sounds like the best option for you, give Enlight Homebuyers a call at (801) 939-0123. We are trusted cash home buyers in your area. We would be happy to help get you the new, fresh start that you deserve.