When you’re preparing to sell your home, one of the most critical tasks is ensuring it’s in the best condition possible. Deferred maintenance, or the repairs and upkeep that have been delayed over time, can greatly affect the final sale price and even determine whether or not your property will attract buyers.
If you’ve been living in your home for a long time, it’s easy for smaller repairs to go unnoticed or postponed. However, addressing deferred maintenance before listing your home can make a big difference in your sale outcome.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to handle deferred maintenance before selling, ensuring your home is appealing and ready to attract the right buyers.
What is Deferred Maintenance?
Deferred maintenance refers to necessary repairs or maintenance that have been postponed, often due to financial constraints, lack of time, or other priorities.
Common examples of deferred maintenance include fixing leaks, replacing worn-out roofing, repainting walls, or updating outdated appliances. While it might seem like these issues can wait, they can pile up and lead to bigger problems down the line.
Why Should You Address Deferred Maintenance Before Selling?
Selling a home with deferred maintenance can have serious repercussions. Here’s why you should handle it before putting your house on the market:
- Improved Property Value
Homes that are well-maintained tend to sell for a higher price. Deferred maintenance may lower your home’s appraised value, which could lead to a lower selling price or prevent a sale altogether.
- Better First Impressions
A home that looks well-cared for will make a strong first impression. Potential buyers are more likely to be impressed by a home that doesn’t have obvious issues.
- Avoiding Buyer Negotiations
If buyers spot deferred maintenance, they may request a lower price to compensate for the repairs they will need to make. By addressing these repairs yourself, you can avoid these negotiations.
- Faster Sale
A well-maintained home is likely to sell faster. Buyers are often hesitant about properties that need significant repairs, as they fear unforeseen costs or hassle after the sale.
Steps to Handle Deferred Maintenance Before Selling
1. Assess the Condition of Your Home
Before you start fixing anything, take an honest look at your home. Walk through each room and make a list of repairs or maintenance that needs attention. Consider enlisting a professional home inspector for an unbiased assessment. This inspection will help you identify any hidden issues that you might not have noticed.
Pay special attention to:
- Roof: Look for missing shingles, leaks, or sagging. The roof is one of the most important aspects of your home and can be costly to repair.
- Plumbing: Check for leaks, clogged drains, or any signs of water damage.
- Electrical System: Ensure there are no faulty outlets, outdated wiring, or other potential hazards.
- HVAC System: Make sure your heating and cooling systems are in good working order. Buyers will be cautious about homes with HVAC issues.
- Walls, Floors, and Ceilings: Look for cracks, stains, or signs of water damage.
2. Prioritize Repairs
Not all repairs need to be completed before selling. Some issues can be tackled later or might not be worth addressing depending on your budget. Prioritize repairs that will have the most significant impact on the home’s value, appeal, and functionality.
High-Priority Repairs –
- Structural issues (foundation, beams, walls)
- Roof repairs
- Plumbing leaks
- Electrical problems
- Mold or water damage
- Safety issues (broken stairs, exposed wiring)
Low-Priority Repairs –
- Cosmetic updates (painting, landscaping)
- Minor appliance updates
- Non-essential repairs
3. Set a Budget and Hire Professionals
Once you’ve identified which repairs need to be done, set a reasonable budget. Make sure to factor in both materials and labor costs. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, hiring professionals is often the best choice. Licensed contractors, electricians, and plumbers can provide expert services that ensure the job is done right.
While hiring professionals can be costly, it’s often worth the investment to make sure the repairs are completed correctly, and that your home meets all safety standards. Additionally, professional repairs are more likely to pass inspection, which can help avoid complications during the closing process.
4. Tackle Cosmetic Improvements
While major repairs are a priority, don’t overlook the importance of cosmetic updates. A fresh coat of paint, updated flooring, or a well-maintained lawn can greatly enhance your home’s curb appeal.
- Paint: Repainting walls and trim can make a huge difference in the appearance of your home. Stick with neutral colors to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
- Landscaping: Trim trees, mow the lawn, and plant flowers to make your home’s exterior look inviting.
- Flooring: If your floors are outdated or damaged, consider replacing them. Hardwood or laminate floors are often preferred by buyers and can increase your home’s value.
- Kitchen and Bathroom Updates: If your kitchen or bathrooms are outdated, small updates like new faucets, cabinet hardware, or fresh countertops can give these spaces a modern look without a full renovation.
5. Consider a Pre-Sale Home Inspection
If you want to be proactive, consider hiring a professional inspector before listing your home. A pre-sale inspection can help you uncover potential problems early, so you have time to address them before buyers notice. It also gives you the opportunity to fix issues on your own terms, without the pressure of dealing with buyer negotiations or demands.
6. Make Repairs That Provide a Return on Investment
Certain repairs and upgrades provide a better return on investment than others. According to real estate experts, some repairs can significantly increase the sale price of your home. Focus on improvements that are likely to boost your property’s value, including:
- Upgraded kitchens and bathrooms
- Improved curb appeal
- New windows or doors
- Roof repairs
For example, a new roof may have a high upfront cost, but it can greatly improve your home’s value, making it more attractive to potential buyers and allowing you to list it at a higher price.
7. Document Your Repairs
Once the deferred maintenance has been taken care of, keep records of all repairs and improvements made. Potential buyers will appreciate knowing that the home has been well maintained, and they’ll feel more confident in the condition of the property. Having a list of repairs, receipts for services, and warranties can help establish trust with buyers.
