Is It Worth Making Repairs Before Selling? Here’s What You Need to Know

Is It Worth Making Repairs Before Selling? Here’s What You Need to Know

The short answer to whether making repairs before selling is worth it is a solid yes! As a real estate professional, I’ve seen firsthand how taking care of essential repairs can make a significant difference. By addressing necessary repairs, not only do you give yourself peace of mind, but you also ease the concerns of potential buyers. With so much information floating around on home improvement and DIY issues, many buyers are wary, sometimes mistaking a minor fix for a costly problem. My goal is to help you keep control of the process, get the best offer, and ensure a smooth sale.

Why Making Repairs Puts You in Control

When you put your home on the market without making necessary repairs, you’re handing over a degree of control to the buyer. Over the past 23+ years in real estate, I’ve seen too many deals fall apart because of minor issues that could have been addressed upfront. Buyers today may not have the skill or desire to take on repairs. For a buyer, even a minor issue can be a red flag, leaving them wondering what else may need fixing. My advice? Take care of these things in advance so that you’re not caught off guard by a buyer’s reaction.

Creating a List of Necessary Repairs

A great way to start is by making a working list of needed repairs. Divide the repairs into “must-do” and “optional if there’s time” categories. For homeowners who feel overwhelmed, consider hiring an independent home inspector. An inspection gives you a complete picture of the property’s condition, guiding you on what truly needs attention. A pre-inspection not only helps you address repairs but also gives you a great selling point: you can show buyers that you proactively cared for the home, building their trust in the property’s condition.

Necessary Repairs vs. Updates

It’s essential to differentiate between necessary repairs and optional updates. Necessary repairs are those that address the function or safety of the home. For example, having your HVAC system serviced to ensure the furnace and air conditioning are working smoothly is a smart step before listing. If your home is older, consider having the sewer line cleaned and inspected as well. An inspection gives you options, especially if a contractor suggests alternative solutions. By addressing these in advance, you avoid putting the buyer in a position where they may demand the most costly solution to a problem you could have managed with more flexibility.

Other necessary repairs include fixing broken windows, ensuring doors close and lock properly, and making sure kitchen cabinets and drawers function smoothly. These may seem like small details, but they make a big difference to buyers. Think of it like getting into a car—if the door closes with a solid “click,” it feels more dependable. Buyers want to feel the same about a home.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Cleanliness

In my experience, cleanliness is just as important as repairs. A fresh coat of paint on scuffed walls, a clean garage floor, and a spotless kitchen go a long way. Some might think this is common sense, but you’d be surprised how many homes I’ve seen where these simple steps were skipped. I get it—keeping a home spotless while raising kids or pets is challenging! But by stepping back and viewing your home through a buyer’s eyes, you can see where a little extra effort will make a difference. Bringing in a home inspector or even a stager can also help you see your home from a fresh perspective, which can be incredibly valuable.

The Bottom Line: Make the Repairs, Keep the Control

Making repairs before listing your home is one of the best ways to retain control of the sale. Think of it as an investment in your peace of mind and a way to ensure you get the best possible offer. Many repairs don’t require a lot of time or money, but they can make all the difference when buyers are viewing your home.

In Conclusion

If you’re thinking of selling and wondering which repairs are worth making, let’s talk. I can help you determine what’s essential, what’s optional, and how to get your home market-ready. Contact me today to get started on the path to a smooth and successful sale!

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