How Termites Affect Property Value (And What You Can Do About It)

Jameson Elam
Apr 10, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Oct 20, 2025

About the Author: Jameson Elam is the owner and operator of Good Sense Termite, serving Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz counties. With over 14 years of hands-on experience in the termite control industry, Jameson specializes in thorough inspections, accurate diagnostics, and long-term solutions tailored to South Bay homes. His deep knowledge of local termite behavior and building structures has made Good Sense Termite a trusted name for homeowners and real estate professionals alike.

If you’re a homeowner in San Jose, you may have heard about termites but never given them much thought. After all, if you don’t see them, they’re not a problem, right? Unfortunately, that’s exactly what termites want you to think. These silent destroyers can wreak havoc on your home’s structure and significantly reduce its value—often without you even realizing it until it’s too late.

The Hidden Cost of Termites

Termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage each year in the U.S. alone, and homeowners’ insurance usually doesn’t cover it. In San Jose, where mild weather creates the perfect environment for termite activity year-round, your home is at constant risk.

If you plan to sell your home in the future, termite damage could be a major red flag to potential buyers. Home inspectors are trained to spot termite activity, and any sign of an infestation can send buyers running or force you into costly repairs before closing the deal. Even if you’re not planning to sell, a weakened structure can lead to expensive renovations down the line.

How Termites Lower Property Value

Structural Damage: Termites eat away at wood, which weakens support beams, floors, and walls. Over time, this can make a home unsafe.
Expensive Repairs: The longer an infestation goes unnoticed, the more damage termites can do, leading to higher repair costs.
Lower Home Appraisal: If an appraiser finds signs of termites or past infestations, your home’s value can take a hit.
Buyer Negotiation Power: If you’re selling, buyers can use termite history as leverage to negotiate a lower price—or walk away entirely.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Home

The good news? Termite damage is preventable, and if you already have termites, it’s treatable. The key is early detection and professional treatment.

At Good Sense Termite, we specialize in protecting San Jose homes from these destructive pests. Here’s why we’re the best choice:

✔ Thorough Inspections – Our trained inspectors conduct detailed inspections to find termite activity before it becomes a costly problem.

✔ Effective Treatments – We use treatment methods formulated for the best results. Ensuring long term protection for your home – and your peace of mind.

✔ Preventative Plans – We offer ongoing monitoring and maintenance plans to ensure termites don’t come back.

✔ Local Expertise – As a trusted San Jose company, we understand the unique challenges of termite control in this area.

✔ Customer Satisfaction – Our clients love our transparent pricing, excellent service, and proven results.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you suspect termites (or just want peace of mind), schedule a free inspection with Good Sense Termite today. Waiting too long can turn a small issue into a major financial headache.

Protect your home. Protect your investment. Call Good Sense Termite today!