When you’re getting ready to sell your home, it’s natural to want it looking its best. But before you start swinging a hammer or scheduling contractors, it’s important to know which fixes are actually worth your time and money—and which ones you can confidently skip.
At Mr. Lister Realty, we help sellers across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and DC make smart, strategic choices that lead to quicker sales and bigger savings. Here’s a breakdown of what to fix (and what not to) before listing your home.
Fix These Before You List
- Minor Repairs That Signal Good Maintenance
Buyers notice the little things. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles, loose cabinet handles, or missing outlet covers. These simple fixes show your home has been well cared for—and they don’t take much effort. - Paint Where Needed
A fresh coat of neutral paint (think soft grays, whites, or beige) can completely refresh a room. Focus on high-traffic areas and any walls with bold or outdated colors. - Patch Walls & Clean Flooring
Fill nail holes, touch up scuffed baseboards, and deep clean carpets or flooring. If a room has heavily worn or stained carpet, replacing it with budget-friendly neutral flooring can go a long way. - Address Any Safety Issues
Loose stair railings, exposed wires, or broken steps should be repaired. These are potential red flags during inspections and can make buyers nervous. - Repair or Replace Non-Functioning Systems
If your HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems have known issues, it’s best to fix them upfront. Buyers may ask for concessions—or walk away entirely—if major systems are in poor shape.
Skip These Before You Sell
- Full Kitchen or Bathroom Remodels
Major renovations rarely bring full return on investment right before a sale. Instead, focus on simple updates—like replacing cabinet hardware, touching up caulk, or updating light fixtures—to give these spaces a refreshed look. - Over-the-Top Landscaping
Curb appeal is important, but you don’t need to completely redesign your yard. Keep grass trimmed, mulch fresh, and bushes neat. A clean, well-maintained exterior is more important than an expensive garden. - Personalized Upgrades
Buyers want to imagine their life in the space. That custom tile backsplash you love or a built-in wine rack might not appeal to everyone—and could even be a turnoff. Stick to simple and neutral. - Finishing Unfinished Spaces
Turning your basement into a theater room or finishing the attic might seem like a selling point, but those upgrades are often costly and unnecessary. Let the buyer envision how they want to use that space. - Trendy Touches
Avoid spending money on trendy design choices that might not appeal to the average buyer. Stick to timeless, clean finishes that have broad appeal.
Final Tip: Think Like a Buyer
Walk through your home with fresh eyes—or ask a friend or real estate professional for honest feedback. What would stand out to you if you were the one considering buying it?
When you list your home* with Mr. Lister Realty, we’ll guide you through the prep process, help you highlight your home’s strengths, and avoid overspending on unnecessary upgrades. With our flat-fee packages, you keep more money in your pocket and sell smarter.
Have questions about preparing your home for the market?
Call us at 410-486-5478 or visit MrListerRealty.com to learn how we can help you sell quickly and affordably.
*This applies to our Full Service options