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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Kimberly Kelly decided to get her real estate license when she moved to South Orange with her family and fell in love with the classic, period homes of the area. Having worked in the city for many years for LexisNexis, Kim understands the appeal of an easy commute to NYC. That’s why she specializes in towns along the Mid-Town Direct train line, offering welcoming communities, good schools, and space to grow.
Very active in her children’s school PTA, Kim knows firsthand how important a school system is to parents looking to make the move to the ‘burbs. She volunteers with fairs, fundraising, and other activities that bolster support for education. Kim also believes involvement in the greater community enriches us all and has sat on various boards & associations throughout the years.
Kim Kelly has lived many places throughout her life, from Pennsylvania to Oregon, but has found New Jersey to be the ideal place to raise her family and put down roots. She loves nothing more than helping others discover their special place as well. Kim’s extensive knowledge of the area, combined with her sense of community, offers clients a personalized guide to finding the right house - and town - to call home.
