Dear Olivia,
I’m thinking about selling my home, but it needs some repairs, if I’m honest. My question is, should I make those repairs first and then list it, or just try to sell it as-is?
Sincerely, Wondering How to Sell
This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask before putting their property on the market. The right answer depends on the condition of your home, your budget, your timeline, and what buyers in your local market expect. You may not need to fix everything, but a few strategic improvements can sometimes make a meaningful difference. Here are a few of my top tips!
Consider Which Repairs Buyers Will Notice Most
Start by looking at repairs that could make buyers nervous or suggest the home has not been maintained. Leaking faucets, damaged flooring, broken fixtures, peeling paint, and unfinished projects can distract buyers from the home’s best features.
Safety and maintenance concerns should usually take priority over cosmetic updates. Problems involving the roof, plumbing, electrical system, heating system, or water damage may also come up during a home inspection. Addressing them before listing could make the transaction smoother and reduce the chance of renegotiations later.
Compare the Cost With the Potential Return
Not every repair will increase your home’s value enough to justify the expense. A complete kitchen remodel, for example, may cost far more than you recover when the home sells.
Smaller projects can often provide a better return. Fresh paint, updated light fixtures, repaired trim, professional cleaning, and improved landscaping can help the home feel cared for without requiring a major investment.
Before starting a long list of projects, speak with a real estate professional who understands your local market. They can help you identify which improvements buyers are likely to value and which ones may not be worth your time or money.
Understand What Selling As-Is Means
Selling as-is generally means you are offering the property in its current condition and don’t intend to make repairs before closing. This can be a practical choice if you need to sell quickly, have limited funds, inherited the property, or simply don’t want to manage renovations.
However, selling as-is does not mean you can avoid disclosing known problems. You should also expect a lower price to account for the work they will need to complete.
Ultimately, you don’t have to make your home perfect before selling it. The goal is to choose the approach that fits your situation while presenting the property honestly and effectively.
For help deciding which repairs make sense for your home, contact me at 307-856-3999. I would be happy to answer your questions and help you plan your next steps!
~Olivia