Have you ever wondered what the role of regular home maintenance is in the selling process? From hastening the speed of the sale to enhancing the attractiveness of the property to escalating your bottom line, keeping up with repairs around your home has major implications when the time comes to list.

Wondering how you can stay on top of this vital home care? Keep reading to find out why (and how) you should navigate regular home upkeep yourself today!

#1 Enhances Curb Appeal and First Impressions: The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, so a well-maintained exterior sets a positive tone. Regular tasks like lawn care, painting touch-ups, and cleaning gutters prevent deterioration and keep the property looking inviting. Properties with strong curb appeal often attract more buyers and sell faster, since buyers form an initial impression within seconds  — and one that can’t be undone.

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#2 Reduces the Chance of Major Repairs: Addressing small issues early prevents them from escalating into costly problems. For example, a minor leak, if ignored, can lead to extensive water damage, mold, and structural problems. By keeping up with regular maintenance, sellers avoid costly repairs that could become major points of negotiation or deter buyers entirely.

#3 Shows Buyers the Property Has Been Well-Cared For: Regular maintenance sends a message to potential buyers that the property is well cared for and hasn’t just been touched up at the last minute. This perception can increase buyers’ trust and confidence, leading to better offers and smoother negotiations down the line. Fittingly, buyers are often more willing to pay a premium for homes that are evidently well-maintained because they anticipate fewer issues down the road.

#4 Increases Property Value: A home in pristine condition can attract higher offers compared to a similar property with deferred maintenance. Simple upkeep like fresh paint, well-maintained HVAC systems, and clean windows contribute to a more polished look, making the property feel more valuable.

#5 Passes Inspection More Easily: Homes in good condition are more likely to pass inspection with fewer issues, which can be a make-or-break factor in finalizing a sale. Buyers often request price reductions or repairs after an inspection uncovers problems, so regular maintenance helps sellers avoid these last-minute costs and delays.

Have more questions about home repairs and ROI? Check out these other blogs for related advice!

• Should You Buy A Home That Needs Work?
• Should You Renovate Or Sell?
• 5 Luxury Renovation Tips To Boost Your Resale Value

#6 Improves Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient homes are appealing to today’s buyers due to the potential for lower utility costs and environmental benefits. Regularly servicing HVAC systems, sealing windows, and checking insulation are simple steps that can boost energy efficiency and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Tips for Home Maintenance Before Selling:

• Paint and Patch: Freshen walls, ceilings, and any chipped or faded exterior paint.
• Service Major Systems: Ensure that HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems are in good condition.
• Landscaping: Keep the lawn trimmed, bushes pruned, and walkways clear.
• Small Repairs: Fix leaky faucets, replace burned-out bulbs, and tighten loose doorknobs.

Maintaining a home over the course of ownership may require an upfront investment of time and money, but at the end of the day, it pays off by creating a smoother selling process, attracting more interested buyers, and often achieving a higher final sale price.

Looking to sell your home? Get in touch with our team today to schedule your consultation today. Give us a call at 202.280.2060 or email us directly at jsmira@jennsmira.com.