Folks shopping for homes are getting a little choosier these days.
As we previously reported in “The Best Week to List Your House for Sale in 2023,” Hannah Jones, economic research analyst for Realtor.com, says today’s sky-high prices and soaring mortgage rates have caused buyers to become “a bit more picky than they were the past several years.”
A recent Realtor.com survey found that home sellers are bowing to that reality by making key repairs that put their property in the best possible light.
More than one-third of sellers surveyed — 35% — made some repairs or updates to their home before listing it for sale.
Following are the most common repairs reported by today’s sellers, including a couple of items that ended in a tie.
9. Caulking (tie)
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 6%
Caulking can serve many purposes. In addition to sealing air leaks, it helps prevent water damage both inside and outside the home.
Ceiling fixtures, faucets, water pipes and other plumbing fixtures are common sites of caulking.
9. Replacing grout (tie)
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 6%
Replacing grout can give a room a new look. But it is also an important way to prevent damage.
Broken grout that chips or cracks provides a breeding ground for moisture to soak into the damaged area, raising the risk of mold growth.
8. Replacing major systems
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 8%
Realtor.com says this includes things such as a new HVAC or hot water system.
Installing a major system is costlier than some other upgrades on this list. But doing so can make your property more attractive to potential buyers who know they won’t have to put money into the system for years to come.
7. Replacing the roof
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 9%
A trusty roof is one of the most important barriers that prevents damage to the inside of your home. It keeps both your family and the home itself protected from the elements.
Potential buyers know that replacing a roof can be an expensive headache, so eliminating this concern significantly increases the attractiveness of your home.
6. Replacing appliances
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 11%
Realtor.com says this includes things such as kitchen appliances or a washer and dryer.
Like curb appeal, having updated appliances is a great way to help your home quickly pass a potential buyer’s “eye test.” New appliances boost the odds that your home will make a fine first impression.
4. Touch-up painting (tie)
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 12%
It’s no surprise that this is near the top of the list, as a little touch-up painting is one of the easiest, most affordable updates any seller can make.
This is a renovation that gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
4. Painting the whole interior or exterior (tie)
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 12%
It you can handle touching up the paint, you are surely up to the task of painting a little more. Twelve percent of survey respondents took on a full repainting of their home’s interior. An equal percentage said they did the same on the exterior.
Ready to tackle this inexpensive way to make your home more appealing to buyers? Check out “How to Save Money on Paint for Your Home.”
3. Landscaping
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 13%
The first thing a buyer sees is your home’s exterior, so you want to make sure you wow them with tons of curb appeal.
Realtor.com says landscaping includes things such as sprucing up mulch and vegetation.
2. Carpet and floor replacement or refinishing
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 14%
For many buyers, worn or stained carpeting can be a deal-breaker.
On the other hand, new carpeting or refinished floors are a great way to show that you have maintained your home well.
1. Minor cosmetic updates
Survey respondents who said they had made this type of repair: 16%
If you have lived in your home for any length of time, it is likely that the structure is showing a little wear and tear from day-to-day living.
Realtor.com says minor cosmetic updates might include things such as replacing a light fixture or faucet. As with painting your home, these are relatively simple, inexpensive upgrades that can pay big dividends.
To make sure you avoid common pitfalls of selling a home, check out:
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