What Should You Fix Before Selling? (And What Can You Skip?)

When it comes to preparing your property for sale, it’s easy to fall into one of two traps: overspending on unnecessary improvements or underpreparing and turning off potential buyers.

As a Vendor’s Advocate, I often guide sellers through these decisions to ensure their time and money are invested where it really counts. The goal? A faster sale, at the right price, with less stress.

So, what should you fix before hitting the market—and what’s okay to leave as-is? Let’s break it down.

Fix: Cosmetic Touch-Ups with Big Visual Impact

Fresh paint

A fresh coat of neutral paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to lift your home’s appearance. It brightens dark spaces, covers scuffs and marks, and gives buyers that “move-in ready” feel.

Flooring updates or professional cleaning

If your carpets are stained or your floors scratched, consider replacing them in key areas or investing in a professional clean. First impressions are formed within seconds—dirty flooring can be a major deterrent.

Front yard + curb appeal

The outside matters just as much as the inside. Mow the lawn, add fresh mulch, trim overgrown hedges, and clean the windows. A tidy façade invites buyers to imagine the home’s potential.

Minor repairs

Leaky taps, sticking doors, broken handles, or cracked tiles should be addressed. These small issues send a message that the home hasn’t been maintained, even if it has.

Full Renovations (Unless the ROI Is Clear)

Kitchen or bathroom overhauls

Unless your property is high-end or you're targeting buyers who expect luxury, a full kitchen or bathroom renovation often doesn’t recoup its cost. Instead, opt for a refresh:

• Replace tapware or cabinet handles

• Regrout tiles

• Install new lighting or mirrors

Landscaping overhauls

Buyers love a neat garden, but elaborate landscaping projects often cost more than they add in value. Keep it simple, tidy, and low-maintenance.

Extensive styling if the home is dated

If your home has an older layout or very dated interiors, sometimes it’s better to market it as a renovator’s delight rather than trying to dress it up with expensive styling. In these cases, buyers are looking for potential—not perfection.

Think Like a Buyer: What Do They Actually Care About?

When deciding what to fix, ask yourself:

• Will this make the home feel move-in ready?

• Will it help a buyer fall in love at first glance?

• Could this issue raise red flags during a building inspection?

Buyers are often emotional, but they're also practical. A clean, well-maintained property suggests a home that’s been looked after—and that goes a long way in building confidence.

How I Help Sellers Prioritise

As a Vendor’s Advocate, I act as your sounding board. Before you spend a cent, I:

• Review your property and suggest high-impact improvements

• Connect you with reliable, affordable trades

• Help you avoid overspending on updates that won’t boost your sale price

• Ensure your chosen selling agent markets the property in line with its strengths

This strategic approach means you present your home at its best without unnecessary costs—and without the stress of figuring it out alone.

Final Tip: Don’t Overthink, Prepare with Purpose

Selling a property doesn’t mean you need to renovate it from top to bottom. Focus on cleanliness, functionality, and presentation. Fix what stands out for the wrong reasons, highlight what makes your home special, and let the market do the rest.

Need help making the right calls before you sell?

Get in touch—I'd love to take a look and help you maximise your sale price, without overcapitalising. Contact us today at aly@walshbrownproperty.com.au or 0411771181.

*** Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, it should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The homebuying process can vary based on individual circumstances, property types, and location-specific regulations.