What Should You Repair Before Selling Your Home?

If you’re thinking about selling your home, one of the smartest things you can do is make sure it’s in its best shape before hitting the market. A few small repairs can go a long way in helping your home sell faster—and for more money. Here’s a quick guide to what you should fix before listing:

1. Fix the Obvious

If something is broken and a buyer can see it easily, fix it. This includes:

• Leaky faucets or toilets
• Cracked windows
• Squeaky doors
• Loose doorknobs or cabinet handles
• Burned-out lightbulbs

These small items might seem minor, but they can give buyers the impression that the home hasn’t been well cared for.

2. Touch Up Paint

A fresh coat of paint (or even just touching up scuffed walls and trim) can make a big difference. Stick to neutral colors—think whites, grays, and soft beiges—that appeal to the widest range of buyers.

3. Repair Flooring Issues

Buyers notice flooring right away. If you have:

• Carpet: Consider cleaning or replacing stained or worn areas.
• Wood floors: Fix scratches or consider refinishing if they look dull.
• Tile: Replace cracked tiles and re-grout where needed.

4. Check the HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Systems

You don’t want any surprises during the buyer’s inspection. Make sure the heating and cooling systems work properly, there are no leaks under sinks, and all outlets and switches function.

5. Spruce Up Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Clean up the yard, trim the bushes, and consider adding fresh mulch or flowers. Make sure your front door is clean, or even better—give it a fresh coat of paint.

Final Thoughts

Think of preparing your home like getting it ready for a first date—you want to make the best impression possible. By addressing these common repair areas, you’ll give buyers confidence in your home and make it stand out in a competitive market.

Have questions or need help figuring out what to tackle first? I’d be happy to walk through your home and give you honest advice. Let’s get it sold!

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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Smooth Moves: 12 Tips to Make Your Moving Day a Breeze!

Moving into a new home is exciting—but the actual move? Not so much. Don’t worry! These 12 expert-backed tips will help you stay organized, reduce stress, and maybe even enjoy the process.

1. Plan Ahead
   Book your movers early and let them know about any oversized furniture. The more they know, the better they can prepare.
2. Consider Pro Packers
   If it fits your budget, hire professional packers. They’ll handle your fragile items and usually pack the day before, giving you a calmer moving day.
3. Set Up Services
   Make sure utilities and services—like power, water, internet, and security—are ready at your new place before you arrive.
4. Clean Before You Move In
   If the seller didn’t arrange a cleaning, hire a service. Starting fresh in a clean home is worth it.
5. Pack a Moving Day Essentials Box
   Include toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, snacks, and anything else you’ll need right away.
6. Make the Beds First
   Assemble beds and unpack bedding early. You’ll be grateful when it’s time to crash after a long day.
7. Shower-Ready Supplies
   Pack towels and soap with your linens so you can freshen up without digging through boxes.
8. Pet Care Plan
   Keep pets away from the chaos. Arrange for a sitter or drop them off with a friend to reduce their stress—and yours.
9. Accept Help
   Say yes to friends and family who offer to help. Assign them tasks like unpacking, organizing, or watching the kids.
10. Hire a Sitter
    Kids love exploring new spaces but not unpacking. A sitter keeps them entertained so you can focus.
11. Hang Art Later (or Hire Help)
    Unless you’re a pro, consider hiring someone to hang your art. It’ll save time and help your new place feel like home faster.
12. Final Walkthrough
    Before leaving your old home, submit a change of address, return keys and remotes, and do a last sweep—including the attic!

With a little planning and the right mindset, moving day can be smooth—and maybe even fun. Here’s to new beginnings! 🏡📦✨