Selling a home is an adventure filled with choices, some of which involve deciding what to repair and what not to fix when selling a house. As tempting as it might be to fix every little imperfection before listing, it’s not always necessary—or financially-wise. Let’s walk through the key areas you might consider skipping over on the repair list to save money and avoid unnecessary headaches.
Major Renovations
Starting with the big stuff, major renovations like redoing kitchens or bathrooms can be a huge financial drain with a questionable return on investment when you’re aiming to sell. It’s a common misconception that a brand-new kitchen or bathroom will always seal the deal with potential buyers. In reality, tastes vary widely, and the new owners might prefer to put their spin on these spaces. Instead of a full overhaul, consider minor updates like replacing faucets, updating light fixtures, or a fresh coat of paint—changes that are much more budget-friendly and still make the space feel fresh.
Over-the-Top Landscaping
While curb appeal matters, there’s a line where landscaping can become too personalized or elaborate. Extreme changes to the outdoor living space can turn into money pits that don’t necessarily woo buyers willing to pay extra for your hard work. Keep it simple and neat. Prune overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and maybe plant a few annuals for color. Think charming but manageable, ensuring the new homeowners see a canvas they can work with, rather than a project they’ll have to maintain.
Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
If your home has dated or worn carpeting, you might think replacing it is the only way to go. However, consider this: new homeowners often have their flooring plans. Instead of investing in new carpeting that might not be to the buyer’s taste, offer a flooring credit in the selling price or simply clean the existing carpets. This not only saves you money but also gives potential buyers the freedom to choose their flooring—something they might appreciate more than your choice of carpet.
Fixing Every Minor Repair
It’s easy to get caught up in the technicalities of home maintenance, especially when preparing to sell. Fixing every little nick, scratch, or small cosmetic flaw isn’t always necessary. Buyers will be inspecting your home, but they won’t necessarily be deterred by small imperfections that are often considered normal wear and tear. Focus instead on ensuring all major systems (like heating, electrical, and plumbing) are in good working order and leave the small stuff off your to-do list.
Unfinished Projects
Unfinished projects can be a red flag for buyers because they immediately signal additional cost and effort. If you have a habit of starting but not finishing improvements, weigh the benefits of completing them against selling as-is. If a project is too large or expensive to finish, be upfront about it. Sometimes, a price adjustment or credit toward completing the project can be an attractive option for buyers who like the idea of putting their own finishing touches on a home.
When getting ready to sell your home, it’s important to strike a balance between making necessary repairs and figuring out what not to fix when selling your house. Remember, your goal is to make your home appealing and functional without pouring money into changes that won’t offer a return. Keep it simple, clean, and inviting, and let the new owners imagine all the possibilities.
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