What to Fix and What Not to Fix When Selling a House

When it comes to selling a house, making the right decisions about how to fix up a house for sale can be a pivotal factor in ensuring a successful and cost-effective sale. Many homeowners may rush into a frenzy of repairs and renovations once they decide to sell, unknowingly overspending on unnecessary fixes. In this article, we will explore the important repairs to make before selling a house and what can be left as is when preparing to sell your home. So, before you break out the toolbox or call in Taskers, let’s dive into the art of knowing what home repairs to make before selling. 

What Not to Fix When Selling a House: 6 Things

You might ask, “What about selling my house as is?”When you fix up your house for sale, it’s crucial to distinguish between home repairs to make before selling and what can be left untouched. Here are six things you generally shouldn’t worry about fixing:

1. Major Driveway Cracks

Major cracks in your driveway may seem unsightly, but they often don’t significantly impact your property’s value. Potential buyers are more concerned with the overall condition of the house itself. Minor cracks can be filled, but major repairs can be costly and might not yield a proportionate increase in your home’s selling price.

2. Major Renovations

While updating your kitchen or bathroom can add value to your home, embarking on significant renovation projects just before selling may not be financially wise. These projects can be expensive and time-consuming, and you might not recoup the full cost in the sale. It’s generally better to offer the house at a competitive price and allow buyers to envision their own renovations.

3. Old House Appliances

Old appliances, while less attractive, often work perfectly fine. Replacing them with brand-new models can be expensive and might not yield a significant return on investment. Instead, consider offering an appliance allowance to the buyer, allowing them to choose their preferred replacements.

4. Minor Electrical Issues

Minor electrical problems like a malfunctioning light switch or an outlet that doesn’t work may not be worth fixing. These issues can usually be negotiated with the buyer, who may prefer to handle the repairs according to their preference.

5. Small Cosmetic Flaws

Minor dings, scuffs, or nail holes in the walls can typically be left untouched. These imperfections are easy for buyers to fix themselves and usually won’t significantly impact your home’s selling price. Focus on presenting a clean and well-maintained property; potential buyers will likely overlook these small cosmetic issues.

6. Windows 

Windows often don’t need fixing. While new windows can be an energy-efficient upgrade, the return on investment may not justify the expense when selling. However, ensuring they’re clean and well-maintained can enhance your home’s overall appeal.

When is a House Not Worth Fixing? How to Decide

When selling a house, it’s essential to make informed decisions about when a house is not worth fixing. Here are some tips to help you decide wisely:

Ask a Realtor

Consulting with a knowledgeable real estate agent is a crucial first step. Realtors have extensive experience in the local market and can provide valuable insights into what potential buyers are looking for. They can advise you on which repairs or improvements are likely to have the most impact on your home’s selling price, as well as which issues can be left as they are.

Talk Costs

Before embarking on any repairs, carefully assess the costs involved. Create a budget that accounts for materials, labor, and potential unexpected expenses. Compare these costs with the estimated increase in your home’s value after repairs. If the expenses outweigh the potential gains, it might not be worth fixing that particular issue.

Consider Your Timeline

Timing can be a crucial factor when deciding what not to fix. If you’re in a hurry to sell, it may not be practical to undertake major renovations. Assess your timeline and determine whether there’s enough time to complete the repairs and still attract the right buyers. In some cases, it might be more prudent to price your home competitively and sell it as-is.

Research the Local Market

Understanding your local real estate market is essential. Research recent sales in your area to see what condition homes were in when they sold. If many homes in your neighborhood sell without extensive repairs, it’s a sign that you might not need to invest heavily in fixing your house. Tailor your decision to the specific market conditions.

Identify Deal-Breakers

Identify any significant issues that could be deal-breakers for potential buyers. These may include structural problems, extensive water damage, or safety hazards. Addressing these issues is often necessary to make the property marketable. However, for less critical issues, consider whether you can negotiate with buyers or offer a credit instead of making repairs.

Things to Fix Before Selling Your House

When preparing your house for sale, certain repairs and updates can significantly enhance its appeal and market value. Here are some important repairs to make before selling a house:

1. Paint

Freshening up the interior and exterior paint can make a world of difference. A neutral, modern color scheme can make your home appear cleaner, brighter, and more appealing to potential buyers. Address any chipped or peeling paint, and consider painting rooms that may have bold or outdated colors.

2. Light Fixtures

Upgrading light fixtures can instantly enhance the aesthetics of your home. Replace outdated or worn fixtures with contemporary options that provide better lighting. Well-chosen fixtures can add a touch of elegance and create a more inviting atmosphere throughout the house.

3. Curb Appeal

The first impression is crucial when selling a house. Enhance your property’s curb appeal by maintaining the lawn, landscaping, and exterior elements. Repair or replace a damaged front door, add a fresh coat of paint or stain to your home’s exterior and consider adding potted plants or flowers to make the entryway more inviting.

4. Minor Repairs

Attend to any minor repairs that may deter potential buyers. Fix leaky faucets, loose door handles, squeaky hinges, leaning fences, and any other small maintenance issues. These simple repairs show that your home is well-maintained and can prevent buyers from getting the impression that there are hidden, more significant problems.

What Not to Fix When Selling a House FAQs

Should I empty my house before selling?

Answer: While decluttering is essential, you don’t need to empty your house entirely. However, reducing personal items and clutter can help potential buyers envision the space as their own.

Can Taskers help me decide what is worth fixing?

Answer: Taskers or handypeople can assist with repairs, but for decisions on what to fix, consult with a real estate agent or professional who specializes in real estate sales to get expert guidance.

Once you’ve decided on what needs repairing, Taskers can help with the following tasks and more: 

• Performing minor repairs: Some minor repairs won’t be worth it, but if you find a minor repair you do want to complete before listing your home, a Tasker can help!
• Painting and touch-ups: They can freshen up the paint, address scuffs or minor wall damage, and improve the overall aesthetics of your property.
• Replacing light fixtures: Taskers can update outdated light fixtures to create a more modern and inviting atmosphere.
• Lawn and landscaping: If your property’s curb appeal needs improvement, Taskers can help with lawn maintenance, landscaping, and minor exterior enhancements.
• General maintenance: Taskers can handle various maintenance tasks, ensuring your home is in excellent condition for potential buyers.

Do I need to fix every minor issue in my house?

Answer: No, you don’t have to fix every minor issue. Focus on critical issues and those that impact safety or functionality. Minor cosmetic imperfections can often be addressed by the buyer.

Is it worth renovating my entire kitchen before selling?

Answer: It’s incredibly expensive to renovate your kitchen, but it’s better to do a full renovation than try to put lipstick on a pig. Either do a remodel or leave the kitchen as-is to let the buyer imagine and complete a remodel of their own.

Should I fix major structural problems before listing my house?

Answer: Yes, addressing major structural problems is crucial. These issues can be deal-breakers for buyers and may affect your ability to sell the house.