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What to Fix and What to Skip Before Selling Your Home

By
Real Estate Sales Representative with Keller Williams Realty Inc.

Are you thinking of selling your home but unsure about what to fix or repair before putting it on the market? Don't waste your time, energy, and money on unnecessary upgrades! In this guide, we’ll break down the top things you need to do before you sell your house—and what you can ignore.

1. Paint and Minor Repairs

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to freshen up your home is a fresh coat of paint. Stick to neutral and timeless colors, like white, light gray, or beige. These shades make your home look larger, brighter, and more inviting. Do a little research to see what colors are trending for home sales in your area.

While you’re at it, tackle those small repairs you’ve been putting off. Scuffed baseboards, leaky faucets, loose door handles, and misaligned doors can make a home feel neglected. Now is the time to take care of those little fixes that make a big difference. One simple trick that goes a long way? Paint your baseboards! It’s a minor detail but adds a crisp, clean look that buyers will appreciate.

2. Kitchen and Bathroom Touch-Ups

You don’t need to do a full, expensive renovation to make an impact. Instead, focus on the details:

  • Swap out old hardware for modern handles.

  • Re-caulk around sinks and tubs.

  • Deep clean everything! A sparkling kitchen and bathroom give buyers the impression that your home is well-maintained, without the need for costly upgrades.

Kitchens and bathrooms play a huge role in a buyer’s decision-making process. A little effort here can go a long way in making a positive impression.

3. Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter

Before a buyer even steps inside, they’re forming an opinion about your home. Make sure it’s a good one! Here are some easy ways to boost your home’s curb appeal:

  • Cut the lawn and trim overgrown bushes.

  • Shovel the driveway and clear sidewalks if it's winter.

  • Add fresh mulch and some colorful flowers.

  • Place potted plants at the front door.

A clean, inviting entrance sets the tone for the rest of the showing. Buyers may not consciously comment on your home’s curb appeal, but it definitely influences their overall impression.

4. What to Skip: Expensive Renovations

Unless your home is in serious need of major updates, skip the high-cost renovations. Luxury kitchens, custom closets, and high-end upgrades rarely provide a full return on investment. While these upgrades might help your home sell a little faster, they often don’t pay off in terms of added value.

Instead, focus on making your home clean, bright, and move-in ready—this is what today’s buyers are looking for!

Need Personalized Advice?

If you're thinking about selling your home and want a customized list of what to fix and what to skip, send me a quick message! I’d be happy to help you get your home market-ready without breaking the bank.

 

Show All Comments Sort:
Sham Reddy CRS
Howard Hanna RE Services, Dayton, OH - Dayton, OH
CRS

Thanks Jean for sharing a great blog on home improvements to help sell.

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to freshen up your home is a fresh coat of paint. Stick to neutral and timeless colors, like white, light gray, or beige. These shades make your home look larger, brighter, and more inviting.

Mar 12, 2025 04:00 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Jean. All should pay attention to your advice and if in doubt get a second opinion from someone who understands the market. Enjoy your day.

Mar 12, 2025 05:13 AM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Jean - wannabe sellers who are putting their properties on the market for sale are faced with many decisions.  The choices they make can have significant consequences. Your post provides food for thought.  

Mar 12, 2025 05:14 AM
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker
Great information, thanks for sharing.  I hope you have a great day.
Mar 12, 2025 05:40 AM
Nelson Huggins
Black Dog Junk Removal - Charleston, SC
Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs

Valuable information. Thank you for sharing, have a great day. 

Mar 12, 2025 07:52 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Jean- these are excellent tips for sellers. Paint, address curb appeal, clean like your favorite aunt was coming over, and address deferred maintenance. 

Mar 12, 2025 06:48 PM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good tips for sellers Jean Richer,

Grab them with good curb appeal and sparkly cleanliness!

Mar 15, 2025 02:06 PM
Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty
Front Gate Real Estate - Brandon, MS
601-991-2900 Office; 601-278-4513 Cell

Make it shine! Sellers who clean the house top to bottom will eliminate the "dirty house" objection and see a better offer than those who don't. Love the pic!

Mar 17, 2025 06:27 AM