5 Important Home Improvements to Make Before Selling

Every home has deficiencies. However, some of these can be easily overlooked while others are major turnoffs for buyers. One of the main issues is, if they haven’t come across a particular deficiency in the past, then they simply won’t have a grasp on the cost or effort required to rectify it. They may assume it’s a big deal so a small issue could be enough for them to look elsewhere.

As such, sellers should consider fixing small deficiencies before they list their home. We’ve had a lot of experience in this area and have put together a list of the top five home improvements to make before selling. Let’s jump in!

1. Remove Surface Mould

This may sound obvious but many people get used to seeing small amounts of mould around their home. It often forms in areas where condensation collects, such as in bathroom caulking and around interior window seals.

These small areas of mould will be noticeable to buyers and they might wonder if other non-visible areas of the home are harbouring mould.

Surface mould is usually simple to clean and an one of the easier home improvements to make before selling. There are specialized products available or you can use a vinegar and water solutions and rinse away. For windows, you may opt to have them cleaned professionally inside and out or you can do it yourself if you have time. If you’re unable to remove all bathroom mould, you might want to consider re-caulking.

2. Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

If you have a 60-amp electrical panel, chances are that it won’t be enough to supply power to a modern home. Upgrading your electrical panel to 100-amp will provide enough electrical power in your home for modern day appliances and is actually a requirement for many insurance companies.

This sounds like an expensive fix, but it’s cheaper than most people think. It would be wise to get a quote on the cost for the upgrade as it might be well worth the expense. Even if you decide not to replace it, you’ll be able to let prospective buyers know how much it will cost.

3. Clean Up the Floors

One of the easiest home improvements to make before selling! A big turnoff for buyers can be stained or worn carpets. Cleaning yours with a carpet cleaner or having it professionally cleaned can breathe new life into the entire home. It not only removes stains, but it can also fluff up worn-looking areas. Plus it removes all the dust and grime that has collected over the years, leaving the house with cleaner, fresher air. The same goes for rugs and mats that you might usually only vacuum.

Better yet, if you happen to have hardwood lurking underneath your carpet then you’ve hit gold. Buyers love hardwood, so even if it needs some refinishing, it might be worth the effort to show it off.

If you have a floor that’s in really bad condition or a carpet with a very prominent and dated look, it might be worth having at least the main living areas re-carpeted.

4. Inspect Knob-and-Tube Wiring

Knob-and-tube wiring exists in many older homes. While this type of wiring is older, it is not necessary to replace it simply because you have it in your house.

However, you should have it inspected and evaluated before putting your home on the market. Knowing the cost to replace it can bring peace of mind for buyers.

5. Complete Small Cosmetic Repairs

All homes have those little imperfections that homeowners simply get used to. But some of these can stick out like a sore thumb to prospective buyers.

Things like, replacing light bulbs, fixing loose doorknobs, and putting a coat of paint on baseboards, can really brighten up your home and change a buyer’s first impression. These are typically DIY projects that don’t require a lot of money or take much time.

All of the suggestions above are relatively simple fixes and easy home improvements to make before selling that shouldn’t cost very much to address. But they’ll add value to your home and signal to buyers that the house is in great shape.

If you’re thinking about selling soon, and want to get the best possible price for your home, your ThompsonSells team is here to help every step of the way.

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