Guide: Essential Repairs to Make Before Selling Your Home
18th August 2024
When selling a home, first impressions are crucial. A well-maintained property not only attracts more buyers, but can also significantly increase your home’s value and shorten its time on the market. As an estate agent, advising our clients on the right repairs to make before selling is a key part of ensuring a successful sale. This guide outlines the essential repairs sellers should consider before listing their property.
1. Address Structural Issues First
Foundation Repairs: Any signs of foundation problems, such as cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors that don’t close properly, should be addressed immediately. Buyers can be deterred by structural issues, and many mortgage lenders may not approve mortgages for homes with unresolved structural problems.
Roof Repairs: The roof is one of the first things buyers notice. Missing tiles, leaks, or general wear and tear should be fixed to prevent potential buyers from walking away or using it as a bargaining chip to lower the price.
Water Damage: Address any signs of water damage, including stains on walls or ceilings, dampness in basements, or musty odours. Water damage can indicate serious underlying issues like leaks or poor drainage, which can scare off buyers.
2. Fix Electrical and Plumbing Problems
Electrical System: Ensure the electrical system is up to standard. This includes fixing any faulty wiring, replacing outdated fuse boxes with modern circuit breakers, and ensuring all sockets, switches, and lights are in good working order.
Plumbing Repairs: Leaky taps, running toilets, slow drains, and outdated fixtures should be repaired or replaced. These are inexpensive fixes that can prevent bigger issues from arising during a home inspection.
3. Improve Curb Appeal
Exterior Paint and Siding: Peeling paint or damaged siding can make a home look neglected. Repainting the exterior or replacing damaged siding can give the property a fresh, well-maintained appearance.
Landscaping: Trim overgrown trees and bushes, mow the lawn, and plant flowers or shrubs to make the garden more inviting. A well-kept garden can significantly enhance curb appeal and make a strong first impression.
Driveway and Walkways: Repair any cracks or potholes in the driveway and walkways. A smooth, clean driveway can make the home feel more welcoming and well-cared-for.
4. Interior Touch-Ups
Wall Repairs and Painting: Patch up any holes, cracks, or dents in the walls and apply a fresh coat of paint in neutral colours. Neutral tones appeal to a wider range of buyers and make it easier for them to envision their own belongings in the space.
Flooring: Replace or repair damaged flooring. Worn carpets, cracked tiles, or scratched hardwood can detract from a home’s overall appeal. If replacing is not within budget, consider professional cleaning for carpets or refinishing hardwood floors.
Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows open and close smoothly. Fix any broken locks, replace cracked glass, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows if budget allows. Properly functioning doors and windows improve security, energy efficiency, and overall appeal.
5. Kitchen and Bathroom Updates
Kitchen: The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a home. Consider making minor upgrades such as replacing outdated cabinet hardware, fixing leaky taps, and updating lighting fixtures. If the budget allows, replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models can add significant value.
Bathrooms: Fix any issues like leaky taps, loose tiles, or poor caulking. Re-grout tiles if necessary and ensure that all plumbing fixtures are in good working order. Consider updating the vanity, mirror, or lighting fixtures for a fresh look.
6. General Maintenance and Deep Cleaning
Gutters and Downpipes: Clean out gutters and ensure downpipes are directing water away from the foundation. Clogged gutters can cause water damage and lead to foundation issues, which can be a red flag for buyers.
Deep Cleaning: A thorough deep cleaning of the entire home is essential. Clean windows, carpets, and all surfaces. Remove any lingering odours, especially from pets or smoke. A spotless home makes a strong positive impression.
7. Consider Professional Inspections
Pre-Listing Home Inspection: Jeffersons have an information questionnaire that enables our sellers to identify and fix any potential issues before the house is on the market, reducing the likelihood of surprises in the buyer’s inspection, that could derail the sale.
Conclusion
Making the right repairs before selling can significantly enhance a property’s appeal, justify a higher asking price, and reduce time on the market. As an estate agent, guiding our clients through this process ensures our sellers are more likely to achieve a successful, timely sale at a price they’re happy with.
