What NOT to Fix When Selling a Home

What Not to Fix When Selling a Home

If you’re preparing to sell your home in the Chicago suburbs, it’s easy to feel like you need to fix everything before putting it on the market. But the truth is, not every project is worth the time or money.

The smartest approach is to focus on improvements that make the biggest visual impact and skip the ones that won’t change how buyers see your home. Every week spent on unnecessary repairs delays your listing, and every dollar you overspend is money you may never get back.

Here’s how to prioritize your efforts.

Why You Shouldn’t Fix Everything

Before you start planning updates, ask yourself two questions:

1. Will this repair actually change how buyers feel about the home?

2. Will it cost me time or money that could be better spent elsewhere?

Most buyers in DuPage County, including areas like Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, and Lombard, care about a home feeling clean, bright, and well-maintained, not brand new. Small, strategic updates can go a long way, while big projects often have little effect on offers.

6 Things You Can Skip Fixing Before Selling

1. Major Kitchen or Bathroom Remodels

Why You Can Skip It: Full remodels are expensive, take weeks, and rarely return their full cost at resale. Buyers often prefer to choose their own finishes.

What to Do Instead:

• Replace cabinet hardware.

• Update outdated light fixtures or faucets.

• Re-caulk sinks and tubs for a fresh, clean look.

These small updates make kitchens and bathrooms feel cared for without the time or expense of a full renovation.

2. Replacing Older but Working Appliances

Why You Can Skip It: Buyers don’t typically increase their offers for new appliances if the existing ones are clean and functional. Many plan to upgrade to their own preferences after closing.

What to Do Instead:

• Deep clean existing appliances so they look as new as possible.

3. Replacing Usable Flooring

Why You Can Skip It: Unless flooring is stained, damaged, or unsafe, replacing it can be expensive and unnecessary. Buyers often change flooring to match their style anyway.

What to Do Instead:

• Professionally clean carpets.

• Refinish hardwood floors if needed to restore shine.

4. Fixing Every Minor Cosmetic Imperfection

Why You Can Skip It: Nail holes, tiny scratches, or slightly outdated outlet covers won’t make or break a sale. Buyers expect some normal wear in a pre-owned home.

What to Do Instead:

• Focus on high-impact areas, fresh neutral paint and clutter-free rooms help buyers overlook small imperfections.

5. High-End Landscaping Projects

Why You Can Skip It: Adding expensive patios, stone walkways, or elaborate garden designs rarely changes what buyers are willing to pay, and they can be a turnoff for buyers worried about maintenance.

What to Do Instead:

• Trim bushes, mow the lawn, add fresh mulch, and power wash sidewalks and driveways for a clean, low-maintenance look.

6. Replacing Older Windows or Roofs That Still Work

Why You Can Skip It: Unless they’re leaking or failing inspections, buyers don’t expect brand-new systems. Most are prepared to budget for these updates over time.

What to Do Instead:

• Clean windows thoroughly and make sure gutters and rooflines are free of debris to show they’ve been maintained.

Where to Focus Your Time and Money Instead

Instead of sinking weeks and thousands of dollars into low-impact fixes, focus on updates that matter most to buyers:

1. Fresh Interior Paint in Neutral Colors

   • Makes your home feel bright, clean, and move-in ready.

2. Deep Cleaning and Decluttering

   • Follow the 90/90 rule: If you haven’t used it in 90 days and won’t in the next 90, pack it up or donate it.

3. Simple Curb Appeal Updates

   • Power wash, add fresh mulch, trim landscaping, and paint the front door if needed.

These updates are fast, affordable, and highly noticeable in photos and showings.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need to fix everything to sell your home quickly and for top dollar. Skip projects that eat up time and money without changing how buyers feel about your home. Instead, focus on high-impact updates that make your home look clean, bright, and well cared for, because that’s what gets buyers excited to make an offer.

Have questions about buying or selling in DuPage County? We’re happy to help, just reach out!