What Not to Fix When Selling a House
Selling a house isn’t easy. It requires meticulous planning and preparation. A lot of people are familiar with what they should do to get their house ready for the market—fresh paint, decluttering, staging the house—but fewer people are aware of what they shouldn’t do before selling. So, here is a list of elements you should retain when selling your house.
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1. Keep Original Architectural Features
Elements such as ornate moldings, vintage doorknobs, and unique window frames contribute to the overall unique character of your house. These features tell a story and lend the house a certain level of authenticity that modern replacements might not capture.
2. Mature Landscaping
If your property has mature trees, flowering shrubs, and a nicely manicured lawn, keep it that way. It might be tempting to make major changes, but true natural beauty takes time to flourish. A beautiful garden can give potential buyers a glimpse of a well-established and serene outdoor oasis that they can enjoy without years of waiting.
3. Historical Significance
If your house has historical significance, this is an asset worth preserving. Again, historical homes have a story to tell. They can capture the imagination of history enthusiasts. By retaining original elements, such as vintage wallpaper or antique fixtures, you will do yourself a favor. Remember, if the new buyers want to do something else to the house, that’s their business.
4. High-Quality Flooring
High-quality flooring, particularly good hardwood flooring, is a valuable feature that doesn’t require replacement. Not only is hardwood durable, it’s also timeless. It never goes out of style and can fit seamlessly with various designs. What you can do, however, is refinish them (if necessary); but definitely keep them!
5. Well-Maintained Patina
Some aspects of a house gain character over time, such as a patina on metal fixtures or vintage tiles. Although signs of age, they can contribute to the overall charm and uniqueness of the property. Instead of replacing these types of elements, make sure they are well maintained and clean to highlight their authentic appeal. Buyers who appreciate history will love these types of details.
6. Established Neighborhood Atmosphere
Location, location, location. The neighborhood you live in plays a significant role in your house’s desirability. The established vibe, nearby amenities, and the community culture are important factors that buyers consider. Although you can’t control everything that happens in the neighborhood, you can emphasize the positive aspects.
7. Storage Space
Adequate storage space is always attractive to buyers. This can include spacious closets, built-in cabinets, a sizable garage, and more. Buyers look for practicality and convenience. Ample storage gives them just that.
8. Enduring Architectural Trends
Some architectural trends stand the test of time. Elements like bay windows, gabled roofs, and wrap-around porches are appealing across generations. Classic elements like these add to a house’s aesthetic appeal and functionality. Be sure to emphasize this when marketing your property.
Summing it up
While you might be tempted to significantly overhaul your house and property before selling, it’s important to recognize the value in retaining certain aspects of the house. Remember, it's not just about what you fix, but also what you choose not to fix that can make a significant impact on the sale of your house.