You just got a job you can’t refuse, but it’s in another city or state, and you need to sell your home quickly. Are you ready? Maybe you spent time and money on the outside but not the inside or vice versa. Should you fix a bunch of things before putting it for sale? Stay tuned to learn about what to consider fixing in your home before listing your home.
What to Fix Before Selling Your Home
You could probably spend thousands to fix up your home before selling, but is it necessary? Not always. The important thing to remember is that potential buyers want a clean look. Repainting dark or marred walls with neutral paint is a great start and may be all that’s needed. However, If your carpeting is twenty years old, it may need to be replaced, especially if there’s damage to it.
Let’s delve into what other things to fix before selling your home.
Make a List
Before you run out and go hog wild on home repair supplies or decide you’re only going to fix a few things, go room-by-room and list everything that is broken, defective, or worn out. If buyers spot areas that have been neglected, they may wonder what else is malfunctioning or not taken care of—not a good first impression. Some of your list may include:
- Replacing broken windows
- Patching holes and cracks in the walls or ceilings
- Fixing broken appliances and HVAC systems
- Repairing leaky faucets
- Repairing the roof if necessary
- Fixing any code violations
Also, keep in mind that buyers want to see a furnished home, but not one that has all your memories, so put away pictures and other sentimental items. If you have battered furniture, but don’t have the money to replace them, throw a nice throw blanket over your couch along with some throw pillows.
Before Fixing Up Your Home
Informed buyers will weigh the cost of making improvements against their home’s market value after the upgrades or repairs are done. If an upgrade or repair doesn’t return the investment, improvement may not be warranted. If you do have money to devote to repairing or upgrading, focus on the kitchen and baths, which carry the highest return.
It may be wise to tour other homes in your neighborhood for sale, which allows you to note the amenities and condition of these homes. If you’re limited with your budget, you can stain your cabinets a darker or lighter color and install some updated hardware to give your kitchen a fresh, updated look.
Note that if your real estate market is hot, meaning a seller’s market, you can probably do the minimal repairs and upgrades before selling. Still, a home that needs fixing up will carry a lower price on the market. Also, a buyer may not even bother looking at a home that needs work, so check with your agent for feedback.
ZechBuysHouses Can Help
If you don’t want the hassle of doing all of the extra work to sell your home, contact us. We buy houses as-is with no agent and no listing. If we can work a deal, we’ll buy your home in Colorado Springs, Co and surrounding areas with no fees, no commissions, and cash in your pocket quickly. Call us today.