Low cost upgrades with limited ROI
To see a return on your investment, a job must be done properly. Trying to keep costs down with patch jobs or partial upgrades may seem a quick fix, but only replacing the bench tops in an outmoded kitchen, for example, won’t add value to your home. At worst, unfinished jobs can highlight work needing to be done or suggest you’re trying to hide something. To avoid unnecessary expense, ask your agent what improvements may yield the best return and focus on those. As a seller, you want to spend money on fixes that have good return on investment. Unnecessary home repairs are expensive and are unlikely to add value – in some cases, they could put buyers off. These include:
Minor cosmetic issues
Most buyers are looking for a home that’s ready to live in. If your property is clean and in overall good condition, buyers may overlook a small scratch on the floor or an old-fashioned tap. Replacing fixtures in good working order because of minor flaws is unlikely to significantly impact your sale price. On the other hand, fixing damage like a broken light fitting or door handle will enhance your home’s liveability and is more likely to pay for itself.
Similarly, while you may think something is drab or unfashionable, it can be better to let buyers decide. If your walls are neutral and in good condition, repainting in this season’s colours could backfire if buyers don’t like it – a good clean to remove surface stains is a cheaper alternative for refreshed walls. The same goes for carpeting – instead of replacing undamaged carpets, invest in a professional deep clean.
Outdated or personalised features
Kitchens and bathrooms frequently top the list of what to fix when selling a house, but before launching into major renovations, consider if they really need fixing. As these rooms often succumb to fleeting trends, it’s easy to worry your outdated cabinets will turn buyers off. Generally, buyers are more likely to notice problems – like leaking toilets or broken appliances. Instead of spending on the latest look, present a functional, well-maintained home.
Major structural repairs
Selling a house with defects isn’t as impossible as it sounds. While environmental or safety hazards (e.g., leaks, electrical problems) should be addressed, major structural repairs can be very costly and time consuming. It could potentially be better to leave the house as is and reflect its condition in the sale price – some buyers may favour a lower price and the opportunity to renovate to their liking. For any concerns about structure, seek the advice of an experienced agent who can help weigh up if it’s worth renovating before selling. They’ll also advise what needs to be repaired before you can sell.
What to fix when selling a house
Forgoing major upgrades, it’s vital to present your home at its best to attract buyers. Simple, cost-effective fixes are often enough to help achieve your asking price, including:
Leaky faucets
Buyers will notice potential ongoing expenses – leaky taps are a particular stand out. Leaking taps could be seen as a sign of plumbing issues, so be sure to fix any drips.
Damaged flooring
Floors are one of the first things buyers see when entering a house, so they should be in great condition. Sanding and polishing a worn wooden floor or replacing stained carpets can enhance your home’s overall appeal. If your carpet has floorboards underneath, ripping it out and polishing the boards is an effective, low-cost update.
