SCHNEIDER Real Estate, Inc.
Roger Schneider, SCHNEIDER Real Estate, Inc.
Email: [email protected]

Fix it or forget it: How to know what not to fix when selling a house

by Roger Schneider 09/08/2024

peach toned picture with text about home seller tips

Before selling your home, you likely have a list of repairs to make - but how do you know what not to fix when selling a house? While most upgrades and repairs add value to your home and please potential buyers, some might not be worth the money or effort.

To help you decide, here are some tips for knowing what to fix:

Consult a real estate agent before making repairs

An experienced local real estate agent will understand the local market and be able to identify any repairs or upgrades needed to get the sale price you want. In some cases, you might be able to skip certain tasks on your repair list if other features of the home shine brighter in the market.

Don't fix & replace with trends

Removing damaged items such as light fixtures and sink faucets can easily change the appearance of a house. Replacing doors and trim can also offer an immediate facelift.

However, avoid an abundance of trendy design choices. What's trending now might be off-putting to some people. Maintain maximum potential audience approval with the use of contrasting colors and common fixtures styles that appeal to the majority.

Focus on major repairs first

Make it your goal to tackle any serious or expensive issues first. Smaller fixes can be left to the end of the process, as they won't require as much time and money. Things like major plumbing repairs, flooring replacement or HVAC work are all examples of fixes that should come before a simple paint job.

Don't do a major renovation

Although some costly renovations will increase the overall home sell-by price, it's not always worth it to start a huge project before selling a house. Check with your real estate agent and compare your home to similar properties in the area to help you determine if a major change is worth the time, money and effort.

What else should I fix?

Once you're finished with your own repair list, hire a home inspector for a professional opinion. Their detailed reports can help you identify any last-minute issues you might have missed.

Otherwise, focus on boosting your curb appeal by refreshing your landscaping, replacing your garage door or adding fresh mulch to the garden.

 peach toned infographic about home seller tips

Home repairs can impress potential buyers and earn you a higher potential sale price. However, it's important to prioritize your projects, so you don't end up spending more money than you make. 

About the Author
Author

Roger Schneider

SCHNEIDER Real Estate, my family's business has been at the forefront of our area's Real Estate transactions for over 40 years! With experiences in the following areas; St. Charles, St. Louis, Lincoln, Warren, Jefferson County, I help both buyers and sellers meet their real estate objectives. I have extensive knowledge of each of the communities located in and around St. Charles, and I will work tirelessly on your behalf to make your next St. Peters home buying or OFallen home selling experience a pleasant and successful one.For sellers, it is my commitment to help sell your home or property in a timely fashion while helping you attain the highest possible price for your real estate. If you are interested in receiving a free home valuation, I encourage you to fill out my free home valuation form.For buyers looking for homes or other real estate opportunities here in St. Charles or other surrounding communities, I will work with you to find your ideal home. I will provide you with all of the necessary tools for finding the right property. From free access to search almost all St. Charles, St. Louis, Lincoln, Warren, Jefferson County area homes, to the ability to fill out My Dream Home Finder Form, everything I can possibly provide will be at your service. In addition, once we've narrowed down what you are looking for, we can begin the home showing process so you can get a closer look at the homes that should be a good fit. I help negotiate the best possible deal for my clients with each and every real estate transaction.Nothing satisfies me more than seeing the smiles that come with a successful real estate transaction. Thanks again for considering me as your Realtor.