What not to fix when selling a house UK

In order to get the highest valuation on a property when placing it onto the market you’ll need to have the essentials in order, it’s equally as important to know what not to fix when selling a house, sounds counterproductive let’s explain!

Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by the prospect of making costly repairs and upgrades before the sale, however, were here to let you know not all repairs and improvements are necessary.

Here’s what not to fix when selling a house

There are several things that homeowners should avoid fixing before putting their house on the market and we have listed the main ones below!

Major Cosmetic Upgrades:

extensive renovations such as remodelling the kitchen or bathroom, replacing flooring throughout the entire house, or repainting the home may delay the sale of the house and the agenda is selling your house fast.

The focus should be on more cost-effective updates that can freshen up the space, such as painting walls in neutral colours or updating light fixtures.

We understand you’ll want to make the property as aesthetically pleasing as possible you just need to go overboard! 😉

Replacing Appliances:

Appliances should only be replaced if they are significantly out of date or possess some health hazard, otherwise, it won’t be necessary to replace them.

Think from the perspective of a buyer, it’s not uncommon for new homeowners to have their own preferences which means them buying new appliances.

Instead of investing in homeware consider providing a home warranty that covers the existing ones that way both parties win.

This can give buyers peace of mind and protect them against unexpected repair costs. Sorted!

Fixing Small Electrical Issues:

All safety concerns must be addressed especially those that relate to electrical systems whether major or minor electrical issues. Major issues will of course take priority such as broken light switches may not need immediate fixing before selling.

Most buyers will conduct a home inspection and will likely include an electrical assessment in the process. We’ll need to just cross our T’s and dot our I’s.

Focus on addressing any significant electrical problems that could pose a safety hazard or affect the functionality of the house, your new seller wants to feel safe.

Home Staging:

Home staging is the process of preparing a house for sale by arranging furniture, decor, and other elements to showcase its best features.

Again while on paper this might seem like common sense it is not always necessary or cost-effective. In the UK, many buyers are accustomed to viewing vacant or partially furnished properties and can visualize the potential of empty space.

New homeowners are going to simply rearrange what you present to them and create their idea of what home.

So it’s best you focus on decluttering, deep cleaning, and creating an inviting atmosphere through simple touches like fresh flowers or a pleasant scent. Keep it simple silly!

Windows:

While windows play a crucial role in a house’s energy efficiency and aesthetics, replacing them can be a significant expense and were trying to keep costs low.

If your windows are in good condition, but more importantly safe and not hazardous then it may not be necessary to replace them before selling.

Ensure that windows are clean, functional, and presentable. Consider hiring a professional window cleaner to make them sparkle and enhance the overall appeal of your property.

Here’s what to fix when selling a house

It all comes down to opportunity cost, meaning we instead you focus on the things that matter around How to Sell your House Quickly for a Good Price.

Electric, Gas and Plumping Faults

By Law, all homeowners must ensure that all electrical, gas and plumbing faults are inspected and sorted every 5 years with proof. This will be checked at the time of sale so ensure you keep all paperwork.

Hire licensed professionals to conduct thorough inspections and make any necessary repairs or updates, this is the most important thing to do when it comes to fixing a house before selling.

Structural Cracks:

Structural cracks in walls or foundations can be alarming to potential buyers, as they may indicate underlying issues with the stability and integrity of the property.

It is important to have this inspected by a professional structural engineer or surveyor. Take images of the cracks and arrange for an inspection/fix.

They can determine the cause of the cracks and recommend appropriate repairs. Buyers will want to ensure the foundations and walls are in order before making a purchase which is reasonable.

Rotten Joists:

Rotten or damaged joists can be a serious problem, particularly in older properties. Joists provide structural support for the floors and ceilings.

If they are compromised, it can lead to sagging floors or potential safety hazards. If you notice any signs of rot, such as soft or discoloured wood, it is essential to address this issue before selling. Consult with a professional contractor or structural engineer who can assess the extent of the damage and sort arrangements.

Subsidence:

Subsidence refers to the sinking or settling of the ground beneath a property, resulting in structural movement.

It can cause cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that no longer close properly. Subsidence can be a significant concern for buyers and may affect the value of the property.

If you suspect subsidence, it is crucial to consult with a qualified surveyor or structural engineer.

Bowing Walls:

Bowing walls are another structural issue that can raise concerns for potential buyers. They occur when the walls start to curve or bulge, often due to excessive pressure from the surrounding soil or poor construction. Bowing walls can indicate significant structural problems and should not be ignored.

Consult with a structural engineer who can evaluate the extent of the issue and propose suitable solutions.

Repairing or reinforcing the affected walls will help restore their integrity and reassure buyers thus increasing your probability of a house sale.