Don’t be misled by HDTV and well-meaning friends! Before you spend thousands on unnecessary home repairs, discover the essential list of things you should NOT fix when selling your home. From kitchen remodels to roofing, I’ll share what truly matters and what’s just a waste of money. Plus, learn the top ways to boost your home’s value and get the best return on your investment without spending thousands of dollars.

Preparing to sell your home can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to figure out what’s worth fixing and what’s not. The goal is to maximize your return on investment without wasting time or money on improvements that won’t make a significant difference to potential buyers. Maria Wells, a real estate expert and broker-owner in Florida, offers practical advice on what not to fix when selling your home.

1. Avoid Remodeling Kitchens and Bathrooms

One of the most common misconceptions sellers have is that a full kitchen or bathroom remodel will boost their home’s value significantly. Wells advises against this, especially if you haven’t remodeled these areas for your own enjoyment while living there. Taste in kitchen and bathroom design varies greatly among buyers—what you think looks fresh and modern might not align with their preferences. Instead, focus on simple updates such as painting the walls a neutral color, changing cabinet hardware, and making sure everything is thoroughly clean. These minor changes can make the space look inviting without the hefty investment of a full remodel.

2. Don’t Replace the Flooring

Replacing flooring is another expensive project that may not yield the desired return. Unless you’ve updated the flooring for your own use, Wells recommends holding off on this fix. Buyers often have their own ideas about flooring preferences, so new tile or wood might not suit their tastes. However, if your current flooring is worn out or stained, consider installing builder-grade carpet to freshen up the space. Carpet is relatively inexpensive, looks clean, and is easy for buyers to replace with their preferred option later. Unlike tile or wood floors, which can be difficult and costly to remove, carpet is simple to change, making it a more buyer-friendly choice.

3. Don’t Replace the Roof (Unless Necessary)

Roofs are a critical part of any home, especially in Florida where hurricane protection is essential. If your roof has leaks or needs minor repairs, by all means, fix those issues. But Wells suggests not replacing the entire roof unless you were already planning to do so for personal reasons. A new roof can be expensive, and the new owner may have preferences that differ from what you choose. For instance, you may opt for shingles, but a buyer might prefer a metal or tile roof. If the roof is nearing the end of its life but not actively causing issues, offering a credit for a replacement could be a better option.

4. Don’t Go Overboard with High-End Upgrades

It’s easy to fall into the trap of upgrading your home to stand out in the market, but doing so without considering the neighborhood can backfire. Wells points out that if the majority of homes in your area have standard finishes like tile and carpet, adding luxury features such as Italian marble floors or high-end landscaping won’t necessarily translate to a higher sale price. Over-improving beyond the value of your neighborhood means you won’t see a substantial return on these investments. Save those high-end upgrades for your next home where you plan to stay long-term and enjoy them yourself.

5. Skip Partial Repairs

It can be tempting to fix only what’s visibly broken, but partial repairs can give buyers the wrong impression. If, for example, your bathroom needs a complete renovation but you only fix a few cracked tiles, potential buyers might assume that the rest of the house has similar hidden issues. Instead, be upfront about areas that need work. Highlight these issues in your listing so that buyers know what to expect and can make informed offers. According to Wells, buyers are often more willing to accept a credit for repairs or a slightly lower asking price if they know what they’re dealing with from the start.

What You Should Do Instead

While there are several things you shouldn’t fix, there are a few essential tasks that can increase your home’s appeal without a significant investment:

  • Painting: A fresh coat of neutral paint can make a home feel new and inviting. Stick with colors like light greys or beiges that allow buyers to visualize their own furniture and style in the space.
  • Decluttering: Clear out personal items and excess furniture to make rooms appear larger and more open. The goal is to help buyers imagine themselves living in the home, and a clutter-free space does just that.
  • Deep Cleaning: A spotless home is crucial. Make sure every corner, including less obvious spots like baseboards and window sills, is clean. A fresh, sparkling home signals to buyers that it has been well-maintained.
  • Landscaping: Tidy up your outdoor space by trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and adding a fresh layer of mulch. This can significantly boost curb appeal and make a great first impression.