What Repairs should I make to my home before I sell?

Are you looking to sell your home, and wondering what repairs or updates you should make before you list it?

Maybe you’re wondering what you’ll get paid back for vs. what could be just a waste of time and money? With the market shifting, and negotiations back on the table, you want to make sure that there is a ROI for anything you do to your home right now.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through the tasks that should be top of your to do list, and those that you can cross off all together. And make sure you stick around for my #1 point, which is the most costly.

#5: MINOR REPAIRS

Repairs are key. Anything that is broken, rotted, dented, or missing will be noticed by a buyer. If they see something off that is blatant and very visible to them, it gets them wondering about things they cannot see behind the walls. For instance, an outlet plate is missing, lightbulbs are out, a door handle doesn’t work. This gets buyer’s wheels turning to the worst places possible. They may start questioning if the electrical work was done correctly, if the furnace has been inspected, or if there is mold behind the walls. You don’t want buyers questioning if the home has been properly cared for. You want them knowing that you have kept it well maintained, and you want them confident in their purchase.

#4 PAINTING

You may love bright red and lime green walls, but most buyers prefer a neutral palette. You want a potential buyer to picture themselves living in this space, and the best way to do that is to pick colors that appeal to the masses. That being said, if you already have neutral paint colors but it has been several years since they've been painted or you have small children and pets with marks on the walls, it is also time for a fresh coat. Now, If you’re planning on selling in a couple of years and think you’ll hold off on painting, I say do it now. If you’re spending the time and money on fresh paint, why not enjoy it before you go to sell? Of course, if you’ve got pets and little kids it becomes more difficult to keep it clean and fresh. So, you want to balance timing the paint with your selling timeframe.

#3 CLEANING

This is obvious and sort of goes without explanation. I ALWAYS recommend a professional cleaner to get those fan blades, baseboards, and get it sparkling clean. It’s a few hundred bucks and makes a world of difference.

#2 CURB APPEAL

Depending on the price point you plan on selling at and the current condition, you likely do not need to hire professional landscapers. Just picking up and cleaning up can make a difference. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Mowing the grass, power washing the deck, laying a few bags of fresh mulch and putting out a couple of potted plants will go a long way.

And finally….

#1 MAJOR UPGRADES & RENOVATIONS

In terms of major upgrades… it depends on what they are and when you are planning to move. If you are ready to sell tomorrow and HAVE to sell tomorrow, you frankly don’t have time to sweat it. You can always give allowances or credits if the carpet is in rough shape. Many buyers actually like this option so that they can select the flooring they prefer. Now, If your kids are in middle school and you want to downsize when they hit college, but there is a kitchen or bathroom of your dreams…go for it. Chances are, you WILL get paid back for it, and this gives you a few years to enjoy it before you go to sell. The major upgrades really depend on what we’re talking about, and when you plan to move. Typically kitchens, master bathrooms, and finished basements are key spots that you will reap a good ROI.

If you have questions about your specific repairs in your home, give me a shout. I’m happy to help!