Given that many potential buyers are seeking a house for sale to remodel, you shouldn’t feel pressured to remedy every tiny problem before listing your home for sale. It might be that they desire something to which they can significantly add value or that they want to put their personal “stamp” on it.
It is worth noting that:
i. Even if your house is in poor shape, it may still sell for substantially more than a home that is not in a desirable region if it is in a sought-after location.
ii. A property is not mortgageable if there is not the provision of basic human amenities i.e cooking and washing facilities which may reduce your potential market if it is not possible for a purchaser to gain access to a mortgage facility.
In this article, we will provide guidance on what homeowners in the UK should and should not fix when selling their house.
What should I fix when selling a house?
When selling a house, there are several important things you may need to fix or address to make it more appealing to potential buyers. Here are some common areas that might require attention:
1. Curb Appeal
The first impression matters, so ensure that the exterior of your house is well-maintained. Tend to any peeling paint, broken fences, overgrown lawn, or poorly maintained landscaping.
2. Interior Repairs
Pay attention to various aspects of your house such as walls, ceilings, and floors. Fix any cracks, holes, or water damage. Ensure that all doors and windows open and close properly and fix any squeaky hinges or faulty locks.
3. Plumbing Issues
Leaky faucets, clogged drains, or malfunctioning toilets are common plumbing problems that you should address. Any issues related to water supply or drainage should be fixed before prospective buyers visit.
4. Electrical System
Ensure that all electrical components, outlets, and switches are in proper working order. Fix any faulty wiring, flickering lights, or non-functional outlets. Consider hiring an electrician to inspect and make necessary repairs if needed.
5. HVAC System
Ultimately, the decision to fix HVAC systems when selling a house depends on various factors such as the age and condition of the system, market demand, and potential impact on the asking price. It can be beneficial to consult with an estate agent or professional HVAC technician to assess the situation and make an informed decision.
What should I not fix when selling a house?
In general, it’s best to address any major issues or repairs when selling a house to attract potential buyers and maximise your selling price. However, there are a few exceptions where you might want to avoid fixing certain things, such as:
1. Cosmetic Improvements: Minor cosmetic issues like scuffed walls, small cracks, or outdated colour schemes may not necessarily need immediate attention. Buyers often prefer to personalise the space themselves, so major renovations might not provide a significant return on investment.
2. Non-essential Upgrades
While it’s important to ensure that essential systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, are in good working order, investing in luxury upgrades might not yield a significant increase in your selling price. Focus on repairs and updates that are necessary and appeal to a broader audience.
3. Costly Renovations with Low ROI
Undertaking major renovations that have a low return on investment, such as installing a swimming pool or customising a highly-specific feature, might not be worth the time and expense. It’s essential to consider the local market and what buyers in your area typically prioritise.
4. Investing Too Heavily in Home Staging
While staging a home can make it more attractive to potential buyers, it’s not always necessary to invest heavily in staging services or furniture rentals.
What about if your house is in serious disrepair?
Making repairs to the property might not be worthwhile for certain sellers.
Instead of making major renovations to your home if it is in really bad shape, you should consider decreasing the asking price. It goes without saying that starting major work on the property under these conditions will be quite expensive.
Additionally, even if your house is in poor shape, it may still sell for substantially more than a home that is not in a desirable region if it is in a sought-after location.
In conclusion
It’s advised you avoid major renovations and repairs that may not add significant value to the property or generate a high return on investment. Instead, you should focus on small, cost-effective improvements such as decluttering, freshening up paintwork, and enhancing curb appeal.
the importance of presentation and cleanliness, as well as attending to any necessary maintenance tasks that could deter potential buyers. Ultimately, the article aims to help sellers prioritize their efforts and spend resources wisely in order to maximize their chances of selling their home at a satisfactory price.
