Small Home Repairs With Big Impact: Simple Fixes Increase Sales Price

Getting Your Home Market-Ready

Minor home repairs can significantly impact your selling process. If you’re actively preparing to list your home for sale, resist the temptation to make significant home improvements. Nationwide, home improvement projects do not recover the expense.*

Instead, focus on minor projects for a better return on time and money. The smaller projects in north central Texas cities have a bigger, long-term payoff. 

So, how do you determine which projects are the “smaller” ones?

Think like a buyer:

Home buyers don’t always notice when your home is in working order. They expect it to be that way. What they do notice, however, is when things are not okay.” When a buyer sees a leaky faucet or burnt-out light bulb, he wonders what else in the home needs attention.

This is one reason why—especially during warmer months—it’s sensible to hire an exterminator before selling your home. If a prospective buyer uncovers bugs in your bathroom, it can leave a lasting, negative impression that won’t likely lead to a purchase contract.

So, with “small” repairs” in mind, here are 11 simple projects you can tackle in a weekend. With elbow grease and a little money, these things will help your home show better and sell faster. Each is low-cost and high-impact:

11 Small Home Repairs With Big Impact:

1. Clean and Declutter—Always number one! Clean the entire house, including windows and floors. Get “clutter” into storage and out of sight! Removing clutter will make the home appear spacious and organized.
2. Paint—Fresh paint rocks! Neutral colors can make a home look clean and updated. Focus on the high-traffic areas, trim, and front door, patching holes or cracks in walls and ceilings. 
3. Curb Appeal—Brighten up the exterior with simple landscaping. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, plant flowers, and add mulch. Welcome visitors with a clean doormat and some potted plants.
4. Fix Leaks—Repair leaky faucets and toilets. Yes, people notice! Minor plumbing fixes give your home that” maintained” look. 
5. Stop Squeaks—Apply lubricant to squeaky doors, drawers, and cabinets. Please!
6. Replace or Repair Hardware—Modernize your home with minimal cost by removing outdated hardware on cabinets, doors, and drawers. And make sure that nothing is “wobbly”! 
7. Lighting—Check to be sure that all light fixtures are working and replace burnt-out bulbs. There’s a good payback on updating old fixtures to more modern, energy-efficient ones. Brighter spaces are the goal.
8. Update Outlets and Switch Plates—Replace any cracked or discolored outlets and switch plates for a cleaner look. Buyers touch the light switches, so they should always be shiny and clean.
9. Clean or Replace Grout & Caulking—Dirty or moldy grout in bathrooms and kitchens is off-putting. Clean or regrout as needed to make tiles look new again. Replace or repair caulking around sinks, bathtubs, and showers to prevent water damage and improve appearance.
10. Doors and Windows—Check doors and windows to ensure they open, close, and lock properly. Fix anything sticking, broken, or unsightly. 
11. Flooring—Clean or replace worn-out carpets and refinish hardwood floors if necessary. There is no need to spend big bucks to get your home ready for sale.

The Bottom Line

These low-cost home repairs and improvements can significantly impact the home’s presentation. A better-presented home is more attractive to potential buyers, and homes that show better sell much faster and at higher prices.

Time spent on repairs will pay off in the end. It also helps reduce the number of items on the buyer’s inspection report. 

What’s Your Home Value? Find Out Now!

* Ref: Remodeling Magazine. https://www.mtctitle.com/tag/remodeling-magazine/