In the current hot real estate market, selling your home could be a great decision. But how do you know whether you should sell as is, or invest in improvements? The common thinking for most homeowners is that their home must be in excellent condition to get the best return on their investment. This can be daunting for the average person trying to decide what to fix and how much to spend doing it.
A wise starting place would be a detailed walkthrough with a trusted and successful agent in your area. They will have their finger on the pulse of what is selling and what buyers are looking for, as well as what they are willing to accept when purchasing a home.
As you evaluate your home with your agent, have an eye for small improvements with a large return on investment, like a minor paint refresh or removing dated finishes like wallpaper. Significant plumbing leaks and water damage, mold, or code infractions that have not been grandfathered in will also have to be addressed.
It’s important not to be drawn into anxiety or vanity fixes. It does not make sense to spend a lot of money on unnecessary repairs in order to balance out a significant flaw. It will not make the unfixable better and will cut into your bottom line on the sale. So, what are some standard fixes that are better left undone?
Major Cosmetic Upgrades
Major cosmetic upgrades should not be a priority before listing and selling your home. Leave time-consuming and costly projects for the new buyers who will likely want to add their own touch anyway. Things like kitchen cabinet and countertop replacements, plumbing fixture upgrades, and major flooring replacements will be costly and may not get the return you hope to see reflected in the final sale price.
Minor Cosmetic Fixes
Minor cosmetic fixes quickly become overwhelming and costly, so don’t start pulling that thread if you can help it. You have lived in your home for a long time and will be familiar with every scratch, nick, and blemish. These small things will likely go unnoticed and are not necessary to address before listing your home.
Paving Cracks
Paving cracks will appear in every driveway and sidewalk over time. They do not have to be tackled to get a good price for your home. There are many more affordable options for increasing the curb appeal of your property without getting into costly and time-consuming projects like removing and repouring a driveway.
Dated Appliances
Dated appliances can be left in place when selling your home. If they are in terrible shape and beyond use, consider purchasing affordable replacements. There are great options at local resale appliance stores or available at online marketplaces direct from the sellers. There is no reason to sink large costs into brand new appliances when that money will not be reflected in the asking price.
Minor Electrical Fixes
Minor electrical fixes are not necessary to pass a home inspection or sell your home. Of course, major, and unsafe conditions like exposed wiring or fire hazards must be addressed. However, smaller things like a switch that doesn’t work or dated light fixtures can be left in place.
The important thing to know is that you can sell your house for an asking price you will be satisfied with and not take on the overwhelming list of honey-dos and upgrade projects. Rely on your agent to help guide you through the process as soon as you decide to sell your home and before fretting over the details! You will likely be surprised at the projects that do not need to be tackled.
If you’re searching for your next home, work with the builders at Brunswick Crossing to ensure your house features all the style, space and appliances that fit your needs. Explore our models and take a virtual tour to discover all the opportunities that await you.
