Buying and Selling May 19, 2025

What NOT to Repair Before Selling Your Home

What Not to Repair Before Selling Your Home

When preparing to sell your home, it’s natural to want everything to be perfect. But not every fix or upgrade is worth your time or money. In fact, some repairs won’t add value—or could even delay your sale. Here’s a quick guide to what you can skip when getting your home market-ready:

  1. Don’t Over-Renovate

Buyers might love a fresh look, but that full kitchen or bathroom remodel? You may not get your money back. Instead of a total overhaul, focus on simple updates like cleaning, decluttering, and painting. Let the new owners put their own spin on major renovations.

  1. Skip Cosmetic Changes That Don’t Stand Out

Replacing light switch covers, cabinet hardware, or minor trim details can quickly add up—and most buyers won’t even notice. Unless these items are noticeably damaged, it’s okay to leave them as-is.

  1. Avoid Custom Upgrades

That built-in wine fridge, elaborate closet system, or top-of-the-line smart home setup might be your dream—but not everyone will see it that way. Custom features can limit your buyer pool and don’t always increase your home’s value.

  1. Don’t Replace Appliances That Still Work

If your appliances are clean, functional, and reasonably up-to-date, there’s no need to replace them just to impress. New buyers might want different finishes or brands anyway. If they’re clearly aging, just be upfront and adjust your price accordingly.

  1. Leave the Old Roof Alone—Unless It’s Leaking

A roof that’s older but still functional usually isn’t a deal-breaker. You might hear about it in the inspection, but unless there’s an active leak or visible damage, a full replacement usually isn’t necessary before listing.

Final Thoughts

Getting your home ready to sell doesn’t mean you need to make it perfect—just presentable, clean, and in good working order. Don’t waste time or money on fixes that won’t pay off.

If you’re unsure what’s worth doing and what’s better left alone, I’m happy to help. Let’s walk through your home together and create a smart plan to get it sold—without unnecessary stress or expenses.