One big mistake home sellers make is spending money on repairs that don't pay off. Getting caught up in fixing everything in a house before listing it for sale is easy.
Many sellers do this because they think their house needs to be perfect to attract buyers. This leads to spending too much time and money on improvements that don't add value.
Selling your home should make you money, not cost you a lot. The key is to only make repairs that will make buyers see your home as more valuable.
Here's what you need to know about what not to fix when selling your house.
How to Decide What Not to Fix When Selling a House
Step 1: Consult with a top local agent before you fix anything
Before fixing things in your home, talk to a local real estate agent. They understand what buyers in your area want and can tell you which repairs are worth doing and which ones you can skip.
This way, you don't waste money on things that won't help you sell your house.
Step 2: Determine If You Will Recoup Your Costs
Not every repair will pay off when you sell your house. Check if the money you spend on a repair will increase your home's selling price.
If it doesn't, you might be better off not fixing it. This step helps you avoid spending a few hundred dollars on things that won't yield a good return, ensuring you only choose to spend money on repairs that add value.
Step 3: Identify and Rule Out Vanity Fixes
Some fixes might make your house look nicer but won't increase its value. Focus on repairs that make your home work better and more appealing to buyers, not just prettier.
This means choosing updates that matter to buyers, like fixing broken things rather than just decorating.
What Not to Fix When Selling My House Fast?
Cosmetic flaws
Many minor cosmetic issues, like painting and gardening, are easy to fix. These simple updates can help your house look better to buyers during the home-selling process, even though they're not the most important fixes.
Some cosmetic problems might require more effort, like installing new countertops in your kitchen or bathroom. Other issues, like a few cracked tiles, old finishes, or small scratches on wood floors, are somewhere in the middle.
If you're good at home improvement, you might handle these fixes, depending on how much time and money they'll cost. Doing small jobs like fixing cracked caulk, touching up grout, patching drywall, cleaning the house well, or painting the walls can make your home look clean and well-cared-for, which makes financial sense and can help you save money.
But if you're not handy, trying to fix things yourself might end up costing more or causing more damage. Your house doesn't need to be perfect to sell. Typical signs of use are expected, so you don't need to fix every little cosmetic issue unless it's covering up a bigger problem.
Minor electrical issues
Your part discusses the importance of addressing electrical safety concerns in homes before putting them on the market. It highlights that serious issues, like an outdated electrical service panel or exposed wires, need fixing due to safety hazards.
These problems, if left unaddressed, can lead to electrical injuries. On the other hand, minor electrical issues, such as loose outlet plugs or a non-functioning light switch, might not require immediate attention.
An inspection report may note these minor issues but often does not emphasize them as significant hazards.
Driveway or walkway cracks
According to the National Association of Realtors, enhancing curb appeal before listing a home for sale is advisable as it can lead to both financial and emotional benefits.
Curb appeal typically includes elements such as freshly mowed grass, mulched flower beds, neatly trimmed shrubs, a new coat of exterior paint, a couple of chairs on the front porch, and a welcoming mat at the front door.
Simple updates like landscaping, tree work, or cleaning up the property can significantly improve a home's appeal. Minor cracks in driveways or sidewalks are generally not a concern for buyers.
In areas with frequent soil movement, such as San Antonio, hairline cracks are common and unlikely to deter buyers unless they are large enough to pose a safety hazard.
Grandfathered-in building code issues
Building codes change over time. A house built in 1980 likely won't meet all the current standards. However, if it was built legally according to the codes at that time, it is usually considered "grandfathered in" and doesn't need to be updated to today's standards to be sold.
Home inspections will point out any deviations from current codes. By law, home inspectors must report all building code issues. However, sellers are not required to bring the house up to current standards because it is grandfathered in.
The new owners can update the home if they want, although many real estate agents might advise against it. Even if a home isn't grandfathered in, minor repairs to building code violations might not be necessary to sell it.
Partial room upgrades
If there isn't enough time or budget to complete an upgrade or remodel, it's usually better not to start. Leaving work unfinished makes it hard for buyers to imagine what the finished space would look like.
Also, replacing just one cabinet or a few fixtures highlights the need for more extensive renovations in the rest of the room. Partial remodels typically don't need to look more appealing.
For instance, installing a new vanity while keeping an old linoleum floor doesn't make sense and doesn't add value. It might even appear as if trying to cover up issues rather than update the space. Either renovate the entire room or leave it as is.
However, consider if an upgrade would make the entire home more consistent. Upgrading a significantly outdated part of the house, like a guest bathroom, to match the rest of the home or neighborhood might be beneficial.
If the kitchen was remodeled five years ago but the bathroom still looks like it's from the 1950s, it could be wise to discuss local buyer expectations with a real estate agent.
Removable items
Removing worn or dated items is often more accessible and cost-effective than replacing or updating them. According to HomeAdvisor, installing professional window treatments averages $1,015.
In some places, like Texas, sellers used to remove items such as curtain rods and valances. However, regulations have changed, and these are now often considered part of the house.
If window treatments are in poor condition, out of style, or make a room look too dark, it's better to remove them before putting the house on the market rather than replacing them. This is a simple and low-cost way to prepare a home for sale.
Old appliances
Mismatched appliances, those over ten years old, not energy-efficient, severely worn, barely functioning, broken, or missing, can negatively affect a home sale. Replacing them with new appliances might increase the home's value, but other cost-effective options exist.
Replacing very old, unattractive, and barely functional appliances with used ones can be a budget-friendly alternative to buying expensive new appliances. Choosing new appliances doesn't require selecting high-end models to impress buyers; even standard new appliances can significantly improve the home's overall appeal.
What to Fix When Selling My House Quickly?
Structural, Electrical, and Plumbing
Before selling a house, ensure the foundation and walls are structurally sound. Consult a structural engineer to address any health and safety issues highlighted during a pre-listing inspection. Electrical systems should meet code requirements to avoid safety hazards and enhance marketability; consider an expert inspection.
Similarly, address any plumbing issues to prevent water damage and costly repairs. Upgrading these systems can increase the home's value and appeal to potential buyers.
Heating and Cooling
An HVAC unit for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning is crucial for regulating a home's temperature and air quality. A unit in excellent condition can be a significant draw for potential buyers, offering them comfort and efficiency from the start.
If the existing HVAC system is nearing the end of its useful life, replacing it can significantly improve marketing efforts and reduce the need for home repairs post-sale. The average cost for a new HVAC system is around $7,000.
However, before committing to a complete replacement, it's advisable to have a qualified technician inspect the system to determine if repairs could extend its life. A recently serviced HVAC system with several years of potential operation can be a strong selling point.
Maintaining records of any repairs, including receipts and service documents, is essential to providing potential buyers with upon their request.
Landscaping and Home Exterior
Maintaining a home's exterior is essential for making a strong first impression on potential buyers. The front yard should be neat and free from weeds and clutter, with any overhanging branches trimmed back.
Fences should be in good condition, with functional gates that don't squeak. For the home, touch up or apply a new coat of paint to address any fading or peeling paint and repair any broken shutters or missing stucco.
Properly caring for the home's exterior enhances its curb appeal and demonstrates a sense of pride in ownership that resonates with prospective buyers.
Roof
Reproducing the roof before selling a house is crucial, mainly if leaks or visible damage occur. Check local offerings and insurance coverage options. Insurance may cover repairs for shingles blown off by solid weather in areas with high winds.
Interior Paint
A fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective way to update a home. Neutral colors are the best paint colors because they appeal to more people and give a clean look.
Choose colors that have broad appeal to attract as many buyers as possible. Remove old wallpaper, as it can make a home look dated. Fresh paint can instantly modernize a space.
Kitchen and Bathrooms
Updating a dated kitchen doesn't always mean a complete remodel. A fresh coat of paint, new countertops, and modern appliances can make a big difference when you renovate your kitchen.
A coat of white paint on the cupboards can significantly enhance the kitchen's appeal. Unless the cabinet painter is an expert, it is best to hire professionals.
In bathrooms, ensure cleanliness and all fixtures work correctly. Check tiles, grout, and walls for any necessary cleaning or repairs.
Flooring
Impress buyers with well-maintained floors. While sometimes it might be necessary to replace the flooring, refinishing hardwood or cleaning tiles is often enough.
Before showing the home, ensure no significant damage to the floors.
Enhance Your Home's Appeal with Virtual Restaging
Deciding what not to fix when selling your house balances costs and benefits. Focus on changes that offer the biggest bang for your buck, and consult with a real estate professional to tailor your approach to your local market.
With the right strategy, you can sell your house quickly and efficiently without over-investing in prep work. Looking to showcase your home in the best light without extensive physical staging?
Our Virtual Restaging for Realtors service can transform your home's interior with stylish, appealing virtual furniture and decor, helping you attract more buyers and sell your house faster.
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FAQs
How do you make your house stand out when selling?
To make your house stand out, focus on curb appeal and depersonalize the space, allowing buyers to envision themselves in the home. Ensure your home is well-lit, and use high-quality photographs in your listing to enhance appeal.
How can I make my house more valuable and sell faster?
Increase your home's value and speed up the sale by modernizing key areas like kitchens and bathrooms, ensuring all essential systems are functional, and staging effectively; set a competitive price and keep the house impeccably clean to attract buyers quickly.
How do I stage my home for a successful sale?
For successful staging, declutter and use neutral colors to highlight your home's features. Ensure each room is well-lit, add welcoming touches like fresh flowers, and maintain cleanliness to create a warm, inviting atmosphere during showings.