Before listing the house for sale, it is generally recommended to repair any damages and upgrade certain features. These improvements typically add value to the property and can improve its chances of selling quickly. That said, some cosmetic changes or repairs may not significantly impact the overall value of the house. Before hiring a contractor, take the time to determine what should be fixed and what can be left as is when selling the house.
Cosmetic defects
Most cosmetic flaws, such as landscaping and painting, are simple to fix. These fixes are affordable and can significantly increase a home’s value and enhance its overall appearance, making it more appealing to potential buyers. But there are certain cosmetic defects that require more work, such as replacing kitchen countertops. These repairs can be skipped. Besides, certain repairs require moderate to mild efforts like outdated finishes and cracked tiles in the bathroom. If the homeowner is not skilled in doing these home improvement repairs themselves, it is best to leave these as they are. Trying to fix these issues will cause further damage, adding to additional expenses. Unless there is a serious underlying problem, some of the most minor cosmetic flaws do not necessarily need to be addressed.
Minor plumbing, electrical, and HVAC problems
It is acceptable for an older house to have air conditioning systems, water heater, and electrical panels that have aged over the years. If these systems are functioning well without any malfunctions, there is no need to fix or replace them. Here, spending money on changing these systems is unnecessary. Many homeowners end up digging up old but working wires and pipes because they have been informed that they need to update their mechanical and electrical components to comply with the latest city codes. However, updating to meet code standards is not mandatory for a resale transaction; only newly constructed houses are required to meet the code requirements of the city. That said, if there are major flaws in any of these systems, it is recommended to disclose these issues to the potential buyer in the Seller’s Disclosure Notice.
Appliances
Most houses on sale include common and major appliances such as washers and dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, stovetops, and built-in microwaves, which need not be upgraded. Spending too much money in replacing them with high-end and top-of-the-line appliances will not really add much value to the house. What can hurt a home sale is if these appliances are not energy efficient, severely worn out, hardly working, damaged, or have missing parts. Unless these appliances are too outdated or are in poor working condition, it is better not to fix/replace them up.
Cracks in the walkway or driveway
When preparing a house for sale, most homeowners also make changes and do repairs outside of the house too. But while making these, avoid fixing the driveway or walkway leading up to the house. If there are no major plot holes or cracks and everything is in good condition, there is no need to replace the walkway or driveway. Most buyers usually look at the overall location and condition of the house and not at the specific flaws of the driveway.
Partial house renovations
Room upgrades and house renovations that are half done would do more damage than good to the saleability of a house. A partial remodel of a room or only one aspect of the house hardly ever looks appealing to a potential buyer. In fact, it adds focus on the renovations that have not been done on the rest of the room or the house. For instance, fixing up a cabinet or a couple of features in the bathroom and leaving the old linoleum floor as it will not make any sense. Such partial upgrades do not add any significant value to the house. Rather it creates an impression that the homeowner is trying to hide a defect or damage.
Windows and related accessories
Replacing broken blinds may seem like a good idea. Or a homeowner may want to change the old window screen or curtains. But no potential buyer actually looks at these things while making a decision to buy the house. So, there is no point in fixing or upgrading these that do not factor in the final decision of the buyer. Instead, take down the broken blinds and old window screens and curtains. One is not required to spend on changing or replacing them. Besides, removing these things will allow more natural light to get into the house making it look more spacious and airy, which can be more appealing for a buyer. But if window seals are broken and are beyond repair, it is better to repair them or provide a credit to the buyer so that they can get them fixed.
Fixtures
Fixtures are cosmetic details that buyers can update themselves based on their personal style and aesthetics. So, renovating these fixtures would only be a waste of one’s money and time.