When you’re preparing to sell your home, the right repairs can make a big difference in how fast it sells—and for how much. Buyers want homes that feel move-in ready and well-maintained. The last thing a traditional home buyer wants is to pay a large down payment and then have to come out of pocket again for repairs and upgrades. Addressing key issues upfront can help prevent negotiations from falling apart during inspections and give you a competitive edge in the market. But not every repair is worth doing, so it’s important to focus on updates that deliver the best return. A growing trend is selling your home to a cash home buyer in lieu of repairs. A cash home buyer will pay cash for your home and close fast. Closing quickly can be an added benefit of selling your home to a cash home buyer.
Start with the Basics
First of all, if you are considering selling you home as-is for cash instead of doing repairs, here are the pros and cons The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home for Cash If yo decide to do the repairs necessary to sell your house, first fix anything that’s broken or unsafe. Leaky faucets, running toilets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles, and damaged drywall are red flags to buyers. These small issues may seem minor, but they create the impression that the home hasn’t been properly cared for. Electrical problems, plumbing leaks, or roof damage should be fixed before listing, as these are often deal-breakers and could surface during the home inspection.
Major Items
Mechanical and structural issues are of huge importance. How old is your roof. Roofs have an age of between 15-30 years. How old is your HVAC unit? Does it use freon, which is now phased out? HVAC units typically have a life of 10-20 years. How old is your water heater and is it within code? In Georgia, it must have an expansion tank on it to be considered in code. Water heaters typically have a life of 10-15 years.
Curb Appeal Is Critical
First impressions matter, so take time to freshen up your exterior. Simple steps like mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, pressure washing the driveway, and painting or cleaning the front door can dramatically improve how your home looks from the street. If your siding or gutters are in bad shape, it may be worth repairing or replacing them before buyers start visiting. Sometimes a pressure wash can clean everything up. In Georgia, there is defective siding call Louisiana-Pacific siding. If your house has this siding, then that could effect your resale value.
Cosmetics Matter
Inside the home, focus on cosmetic updates that make the space feel clean and neutral. Repainting in soft, modern colors like light grays or warm whites can make rooms feel larger and brighter. Replace outdated light fixtures, switch covers, and cabinet hardware for a quick facelift. Clean carpets or consider replacing them if they’re worn or stained. If you have hardwood floors, refinishing them can add noticeable value.
Kitchens and Baths Are Where the Money Is
Kitchens and bathrooms are high-impact areas. While full remodels are rarely necessary, small upgrades can go a long way. Re-grouting tile, replacing old faucets, or updating outdated cabinet knobs can make these rooms feel fresher. If appliances are broken or very dated, replacing them with energy-efficient models could help attract buyers. Most buyers want at a very minimum granite countertops in the kitchen. There is a growing trend of Quartz countertops depending on the value of your home.
Finally, consider getting a pre-listing home inspection. This allows you to identify and address problems that might derail a sale later. Even if you don’t make every suggested repair, you’ll be better prepared for what might come up during negotiations. The goal is to present a home that looks well-cared for, functions properly, and gives buyers confidence that they’re making a sound investment. Home renovations can cost anywhere from a few thousand to $100,000 depending on what you are doing. If you don’t want the hassle of renovations when selling your house, you may want to consider selling your house to a cash home buyer. A cash home buyer will buy your home for cash and close quickly. If you do decide to sell to a cash home buyer, be aware of these pitfalls What Are the Pitfalls to Avoid When Selling Your Home As-Is?