Realtors! Want Top Dollar for Your Clients’ Homes? Start With These Repairs

Oct 6

The Realtor’s Pre-Listing Repair Checklist

When preparing a home for sale, not every fix belongs on a seller’s to-do list — but knowing which ones matter most can transform buyer perception. Use this checklist to prioritize high-impact updates that will make your listing stand out.

✅ 1. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions start at the curb. Tackle visible wear and tear that can overshadow everything inside.

Repaint or refinish the front door.
Repair cracked walkways, railings, or steps.
Trim shrubs, edge the lawn, and add mulch to garden areas.
Clean and/or replace dated exterior lighting and house numbers for instant polish.
Ensure sprinkler systems are in working order.
Add a new welcome mat to the front door.

✅ 2. Eliminate Functional Red Flags

Minor maintenance issues send the wrong message. Fix these before buyers notice:

Leaky faucets, running toilets, or dripping showerheads.
Squeaky doors, loose cabinet hinges, or sticky drawers.
Flickering lights, faulty outlets, or old smoke detectors.
Make sure all lights work.

✅ 3. Add Cosmetic Touch-Ups

Small visual upgrades deliver big returns.

Repaint walls in neutral tones.
Re-grout tile in kitchens and baths.
Replace dated hardware or light fixtures.

✅ 4. Weigh Cost vs. Value

Before investing in repairs, ask:

Will this repair make buyers feel confident in purchasing this home?
Will this repair enhance the overall look of the home?
Could ignoring it derail a sale?
If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, prioritize it.

✅ 5. Stay Organized

Create a repair list with categories for must-do, nice-to-do, and optional tasks. Even a handful of strategic fixes can make your listing feel fresh, move-in ready, and irresistible.

Pro Tip: Want to master what sells faster? Check out The Realtor’s Ultimate Guide to Home Staging Success for step-by-step staging strategies that turn listings into closings.

Nancy Maurer