Seller guide
What to fix before selling, and what to leave
Water and things that do not work come before paint. This is not a promise that a repair will raise the price.
A buyer will have the house inspected. Some repairs change whether a loan will close or whether water is getting in. Other work is taste, and taste is a poor reason to remodel before you list. This is general information. It is not a promise about price, and it is not a repair order.
Worth a look before you list
- Active water: a roof leak, a gutter that dumps against the foundation, or standing water in a basement or crawl space.
- Things that do not work: heat, water heater, main plumbing shutoff, electric panel issues an inspector will flag as unsafe.
- Safety items a buyer cannot ignore, such as missing smoke detectors or a stair rail that is gone. Ask the inspector what actually matters for that house.
Often fine to leave
- Paint colors, carpet you dislike, and a kitchen you would have designed differently. Buyers repaint.
- A full remodel just before listing. You may not get the cost back, and you may not match the next owner's taste. Get a second opinion before you spend.
- Personal photos and extra furniture. Clear rooms so the house is easy to see. That is not a repair.
On a lake cottage, also ask about the septic, the well, the dock, and winter shut-down. Those are in the inspection guide and the summer home guide.
The Ohio disclosure form is a separate duty. See the disclosure guide.
More guides: all guides. Questions: FAQ.