What should I do about my front steps and deck before listing my home?

Repair or replace unstable wooden steps, hammer down popped nails, reinforce loose railings, and refinish decking with cracked or peeling paint to ensure safety and curb appeal.

How can I fix sticking or noisy doors and windows before showing my home?

Lubricate hinges, drawer sliders, and window sashes, and tighten loose screws on door hinges so they open and close smoothly.

Why is it important to repair cracked or broken windowpanes before selling?

Cracked or broken windows suggest poor maintenance, so replacing or repairing them helps improve your home's overall condition and appeal.

What should I do about stained carpets prior to listing my home?

Have carpets professionally cleaned with stain removal services, cover persistent stains with area rugs or furniture, or consider replacing carpets in very poor condition.

How should I address flooring issues like broken tiles or peeling floors before putting my home on the market?

Replace chipped or cracked tiles and repair any peeling flooring corners to improve the room's appearance and eliminate safety hazards.

Essential Home Repairs Before Listing for Sale

There are several things to do when you prepare to list your home for sale. One of the projects you'll need to do is complete certain repairs. Your home should be in the best possible condition before your real estate agent shows it to potential buyers.

While your home doesn't need to be perfect, here is a list of repairs you should strive to get done before you open your home to showings.

Front Steps and Deck Issues

The front entrance and back deck should be in good shape for curb appeal and safety. Replace or repair wooden steps that pose a danger or feel unstable. Hammer down any nails on the deck that have popped up over the years. Reinforce loose railings and handrails. Refinish decking that has dried, cracked or peeling paint.

Sticking or Noisy Hinges and Sliders

Buyers will likely be opening doors, drawers, windows and cupboards. Don't let them be disappointed. Go through your home and identify doors, windows and drawers that don't open and close smoothly. Lubricate hinges, drawer sliders or window sashes as necessary. Tighten loose screws on door hinges to ensure the door swings easily.

Cracked or Broken Windowpanes

Windows in disrepair often signal that the home hasn't been well-maintained. Replace or repair cracked or broken windows or window glass that's clouded over from loss of insulation.

Stained Carpets

Buyers' eyes may instantly be drawn to visible stains on your carpet. Have carpets professionally cleaned with added stain removal services. Camouflage any stains that won't come out with an area rug or a piece of furniture. Alternatively, consider replacing carpets that are in extremely poor condition.

Broken Tiles and Peeling Flooring

Flooring in poor condition often ruins the look of the room and is a safety hazard. Replace chipped or cracked floor tiles. Repair any corners where the flooring has begun to peel up.

Electrical Issues

Go through your home and make sure all the sockets, outlets and wall switches are in proper working order. Have a certified electrical technician do the work; otherwise, the work may not be approved on home inspection report.

First impressions are extremely important when it comes to selling your home. Don't assume that buyers will be able to look at past needed repairs. Instead, take care of these issues before your agent shows your home.

Your trusted real estate agent is available to help you prioritize the home repairs that really matter to buyers. And a trusted mortgage advisor with Bond Street Mortgage is ready to assist you with your financing for your next home. Be sure to get pre-approved before you start your new home search.