5 Things to Fix Before Selling Your House

Are you getting ready to sell your house? If so, you might be wondering which repairs and upgrades will make the biggest difference to buyers. From my experience working with sellers in the Denver Metro area, I’ve developed a list of five key things to focus on before putting your home on the market. For a detailed walkthrough, make sure to check out the full video:

1. Ensure Working Essentials

Think of your home as a used car: buyers want something that works reliably. Before anything else, make sure all essential systems are fully functional. I call these the working essentials:

HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Systems: All systems should be in good working order. A broken HVAC, faulty plumbing, or unreliable electrical work can scare off buyers and lower your home’s perceived value.
Roof and Windows: Your roof and windows should be secure, with no leaks or damages. If your roof leaks or windows don’t lock properly, it can put your property in the “fixer-upper” category, attracting investor buyers rather than typical homebuyers.

If you decide not to repair these essentials, be aware that this will likely reduce your sale price and attract buyers looking for a “project” property, such as investors or flippers.

2. Fix What’s Broken

Even if all the basics are working, there are often small repairs that need attention. This could be anything from a leaky faucet to a broken door lock. Tackling these minor repairs shows buyers that the home has been well maintained and helps create a positive first impression.

However, prioritize wisely. For example, fixing an old appliance might not be worth it if it’s still functional. On the other hand, a visibly broken fixture, like a wobbly doorknob or a cracked tile, could make the home seem poorly maintained. Working with an agent can help determine which fixes are worth the investment.

3. View Your Home Through a Buyer’s Eyes

To prepare your home for the market, walk through it as if you were the buyer. If that’s hard to do, ask a friend, neighbor, or your agent to help spot areas that might need attention. Buyers often notice things that sellers overlook because they’re used to them.

Cosmetic Details: Things like worn carpet, chipped paint, or outdated light fixtures might stand out more to buyers. By addressing these, you can make your home feel move-in ready.
Minor Cosmetic Issues: For things like a slightly dirty furnace or an outdated light fixture, you don’t necessarily need to replace or repair them, but be prepared for buyers to bring them up during negotiations. Setting realistic expectations with your agent can help you decide what to address.

4. Make Strategic Cosmetic Upgrades

Once you’ve handled the essentials and fixed any glaring issues, consider minor cosmetic upgrades. While you don’t need to fully renovate, certain improvements can increase your home’s value and appeal:

Paint: A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference, especially in high-traffic areas or rooms with outdated colors.
Lighting and Fixtures: Updating outdated light fixtures can add a modern touch without costing much.
Curb Appeal: Simple improvements, like tidying up the lawn or adding fresh mulch, can make a strong first impression.

Pro Tip: Talk to your agent before making any upgrades. Sometimes, homeowners spend thousands on upgrades that don’t yield a high return. Your agent can help you identify which upgrades offer the best ROI based on current market conditions and buyer expectations in your area.

5. Interview Agents Before You List

Finally, before doing anything major, take the time to interview real estate agents. An experienced agent can provide valuable insight into which repairs or upgrades will help you sell faster and for a better price. Often, sellers spend money on things they think will add value, only to find out later that those upgrades weren’t necessary. An agent can help you avoid these pitfalls.

If you’re thinking of replacing all the windows, consider talking to your agent first. While new windows are nice, the return on investment might be low unless the existing windows are damaged or non-functional. Spending thousands on this might not boost your sale price as much as you’d expect.

Selling a home is all about making the right improvements without overspending. By focusing on these five key areas, you can make your home more appealing to buyers and ensure you’re getting the best return on your investment.

If you’d like help determining which repairs or upgrades are worth making for your home, I’d love to help. Book your consultation today at www.calendly.com/RealtorStacie or give me a call at 720-295-9089.