Should I fix my house or sell it as is? This is a common — and important — question that runs through the minds of home sellers before putting it on the market. While it’s true that some renovations can improve the value of the home, the same can’t be said for all repair projects. To learn more, here’s a look at what not to fix when selling a house.
Signs of Age
Although wear and tear might detract from a home’s appearance, it’s expected from pre-owned properties. More importantly, cosmetic flaws that have little to no bearing on functionality aren’t nearly as important as water damage or more serious problems. With that in mind, some superficial imperfections can be a sign of underlying issues that you shouldn’t ignore. Therefore, while you should take note of any wear and tear, there is no pressing need to repair it unless absolutely necessary.
The same holds true for some outdated features like floor coverings or windows. Completely taking apart and removing retro fixtures isn’t worth the effort unless there’s something seriously wrong with them — in some cases, updating them may not even prove to be worth it in the long run.
Minor Electrical Problems
If someone asked you what not to fix when selling a house, electrical problems might not be at the top of your list. After all, frayed or exposed wiring can be a serious safety hazard and demand a major repair. However, more minor electrical issues won’t be that big of a deal in the long run. Buyers don’t often care much about small problems like loose or dead outlets, which are easily fixable. You’re better off devoting time and money to more serious repairs.
Old and Outdated Appliances
Although old and outdated appliances can take up a lot of space and make a room feel outdated, are they what not to fix when selling a house? It may seem enticing to add modern appliances into your kitchen to make it more attractive to potential buyers, but not updating them isn’t likely to be an issue. Some buyers may feel inclined to install their own appliances or outright purchase new ones they like, so you shouldn’t bother spending money on any expensive models.
Incomplete Room Updates
Knowing what not to fix when selling a house isn’t just about individual fixtures or minor problems, but understanding when not to remodel a room. While giving a room a makeover can help improve the value of your home, it won’t pay off if you can’t complete it — in fact, showing room renovations in-progress to homebuyers will be worse than showing them something outdated. They may even believe you ran out of funds to finish the project. With that in mind, stay away from large-scale remodeling projects that are too much of a time and budget commitment.
Conversely, partial room upgrades aren’t a good alternative. Replacing one or two features will contrast with the other outdated fixtures in the room and appear as an attempt to mask flaws rather than as an improvement. Therefore, it’s best to undertake more realistic and thorough home improvement projects you know can be completed.
Should I Fix My House or Sell As Is? We’ll Help You Find an Answer!
For more information on what not to fix when selling a house and whether certain home repairs will be worth it at all, contact The Mike McCann Team today. We’re knowledgeable and skilled real estate agents who have experience selling Society Hill Philadelphia real estate, condos for sale in Center City, Philadelphia, and many other properties. To learn more and schedule an appointment, contact us today!
