It’s important to take a step back and have a critical eye when getting your home ready for sale. Buyers are looking for as close to “move-in ready” as possible. You want them to walk in and feel like your home has been well-maintained and won’t be a money pit. By making necessary home repairs before listing, potential buyers will feel confident that your home has been well cared for.
There are some small common repairs that many homeowners tend to overlook. Here’s a list of the most important home repairs to do before selling:
EXTERIOR
Driveway and Pavement
Pressure-wash the walkways and driveway, then repair any stains or cracks. This will help improve your overall curb appeal and make buyers feel more confident about the condition of your property.
Landscaping and Lawn
Your lawn should be lush and green while it’s on the market. Repair any bald patches on your lawn and remove weeds. Trim all trees and bushes and replace any flowers that need to be freshened up.
Mailbox
Make sure the mailbox is in good condition and that the numbers are fully visible. If it’s looking tired, repaint it or replace it with a new one.
Fence
If your fence is stained, repaint or re-stain it to give it a fresh clean look. Replace any broken areas or if necessary consider switching the fence out completely with a new one if it has seen better days.
Front Door
You only get one chance to make a first impression. Your front door is vulnerable to the weather, so it’s a good idea to give it a fresh coat of paint or stain.
INTERIOR
Walls
It’s a good idea to put a fresh coat of paint on the entire house before listing it. Repair any holes in the walls or any wear and tear. Paint the walls in a nice neutral colour.
Flooring
Different types of flooring require different care. Give all carpet a deep cleaning and if any stains remain, consider replacing it altogether. Tile and wood floors should be cleaned and polished.
Ceiling
Popcorn ceilings date a home and are undesirable to most buyers. It is worth the investment to have it scraped off or scrape it off yourself. If there are any stains left by old leaks, be sure to put a fresh coat of paint over them.
Doors
Check all your interior doors for any marks or damage and repair or repaint as needed. Ensure none of the doors stick or squeak when opened. Doorknobs should be updated and in good condition.
Caulking
It is common over time for the caulking around sinks, bathtubs, windows and baseboards to sustain damage. You can easily update and repair any areas by simply purchasing a tube of caulk from your local hardware store. This will give these areas a fresh clean look.
Baseboards
Baseboards are a feature in your home that are often overlooked when you are listing your home, but they can have a big effect on how your home shows. Fix any chips or damage in the baseboards, scrub them clean and if necessary put a fresh coat of paint on them to brighten them up.
These simple home repairs will make a big impact on how your home shows to buyers.