It is something you want to take care of. It could be as simple as putting a dehumidifier down there.

We do have a dehumidifier, but good point. :>)

First you need to find the root cause of the problem. Then, yes, absolutely fix it.

I would rather fix it now then wait and reduce the asking price of your home. More then likely a potential buyer would "over budget" for the repairs, trying to get an even lower price. Just one big worry fixed and checked off the list of things to do.

I used Clorox and a special waterproofing paint when we sold our first house in the early 80's. The basement garage was a nightmare. It was all we could possibly afford to do at the time, and the law did not at that time require the disclosures that are required today. All these years later, I still feel guilty about this, but it was our only choice.

When we had this problem again in our basement and garage here in KY, we were luckier. First, it was far less drastic a problem. Second, my husband had the time (school teacher) and the youth, to did out the foundation in front and repair cracks, cover with tar, add gravel and regrade the front. Then he used some special products to fill the cracks in side the basement and garage, painted with special paint in the garage, and drywalled over basement wall. That was at least 30+ years ago, and the work has held.

When DD had this problem (properly disclosed when she bought the house), she called B-Dry, a national chain of basement waterproofing. They installed french drains and did some other wonders and no more water in her basement. It was actually quite reasonably priced. I would recommend them on the basis of her work, and the work done for her friends, who recommended them to her.

I have no advice but want to second the rec for B-Dry; I used them close to 20 years ago so things might have changed, but at that time they did great work, solved the problem in an efficient manner, and weren't horrifically expensive.

Ask your realtor (or a local realtor): In my area most homes are on a high water table. Its common to have some seepage, even with full french drain (interior perimeter - about $10k+ here (HCOL)) and multiple sump pumps ($2k+ for full install including jackhammer basement floor etc.). (Pricing is work by a pro - no DIY for me.) It's such a hot real estate market, and such a common problem with known fix (that can easily be done even after move-in - its in the basement so not like getting kitchen/bath redone), it wouldn't scare off any buyer here.

Of course your problem might be very minor - what do I know as a stranger on the internet! But worst case and its a big problem, the realtor should advise you. Here they'd absolutely say leave it for the buyer.

The realtor might say in your area that's uncommon and would scare buyers - so worth the cost to fix. HTH!

Thanks very much for your response. We had a guy from EverDry (a well-reputed company according to BBB) come in last night, and he did tests with a moisture meter. To permanently get rid of mold problems, he said, would cost $15-18K. The basement floor *is* dry, but there is moisture building up in cinder block walls, causing blistering, mold, and some stairstep cracking. Needless to say, I am feeling blown away. We will be getting a second opinion. Mold in a basement would definitely scare me away, and I think a home inspector would certainly draw attention to it. We can afford the fix, but my husband is balking....probably because he hates spending that kind of money and he dislikes salesmen. And also because he is a scientist and therefore a natural skeptic, both of which I respect. Well. There it is. Thanks for everyone's input!

Get a second and third opinion from other repair companies. This way, you will know if the price is high.