By Laurie Rilee, REALTOR®
One of the first questions sellers ask me is, "What do I need to fix before we list?" After more than 20 years in real estate, my answer is usually less than you think, as long as it's the right things.
Fix what buyers will notice first
- Paint. Fresh, neutral paint is one of the least expensive ways to make a home feel cared for.
- Small repairs. Dripping faucets, sticky doors, burned-out bulbs, and loose railings make buyers wonder what else has been put off.
- Curb appeal. Edge the beds, add fresh mulch, power-wash the walk, and put a few potted plants by the door. First impressions start in the driveway.
- Light and clutter. Open the blinds, clean the windows, and clear the countertops. Rooms photograph and show bigger.
Get ahead of the inspection
Many older homes here have stone foundations, well and septic systems, or aging roofs. If you know about an issue, it's often better to address it or get a contractor estimate ahead of time, so it doesn't become a surprise during negotiations.
What you can usually leave alone
- Full kitchen or bath remodels right before listing rarely return what they cost.
- Trendy finishes that match your taste but not every buyer's.
- Major landscaping projects that won't mature before you sell.
Start with a walk-through
Every home and every neighborhood is different. Before you spend a dollar, I'll walk through your home with you, look at recent nearby sales, and give you an honest list of what's worth doing and what isn't.