{"id":63137,"date":"2025-09-30T14:27:50","date_gmt":"2025-09-30T21:27:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/?p=63137"},"modified":"2025-09-30T14:27:50","modified_gmt":"2025-09-30T21:27:50","slug":"7-home-fixes-you-must-complete-before-selling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/7-home-fixes-you-must-complete-before-selling\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Home Fixes You Must Complete Before Selling\u200b"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether it\u2019s a job interview, a date, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/prep-your-house-for-sale\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">getting ready to sell your house<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you\u2019ve heard the phrase repeated countless times \u2014 first impressions matter. You know this, and you understand that your house needs <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/curb-appeal-for-selling-your-home\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">curb appeal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to sell, especially in a slow market.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But in this post, we nail down the seven home fixes you must complete before selling.\u00a0 We\u2019re not talking about the big-ticket systems, like the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical; we\u2019re assuming you\u2019ve made certain those are in working order.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead, we\u2019re focusing on what buyers actually see and react to in the moment \u2014 the highly visible things that can abruptly turn them away during a showing. We\u2019ll start with what they see first:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"geo-cta widget-cta widget-cta--content     widget-cta--dark widget-cta--dark-blue-gradient\">\n    <div class=\"widget-element--content\">\n        <div class=\"widget-element--content-header\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"homelight logo\" class=\"widget-element--logo\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/ccprototypev5\/images\/logo-small-cta.png\" width=\"106\" height=\"25\" \/>\n        <\/div>\n        \n                <h3 class=\"cta-headline widget--bold\">Looking to Get Top Dollar? Connect With a Top Agent<\/h3>\n                        <p>It takes just two minutes to match clients with the best real estate agents, who will contact you and guide you through the process. Our data shows the top 5% of agents across the U.S. help clients sell their home for as much as 10% more than the average real estate agent.<\/p>\n        \n                <div class=\"widget-element--buttons\">\n            <a data-type=\"In Content CTA\" href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/find-agent\/quiz\/seller?#\/qaas=0\/\" class=\"cta-click-track widget-element--button\">Find Agent<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--1\" data-toc-header=\"1. Restore a dead or dying lawn\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>1. Restore a dead or dying lawn<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a buyer approaches your home, if the front lawn appears neglected, they may start doubting how well you\u2019ve maintained the rest of the house. Some sellers may not think of this as a \u201crepair,\u201d but a patchy, brown, or weed-ridden lawn sends a silent message: this house needs work. Even if everything inside is spotless, a poor lawn will immediately dampen enthusiasm before buyers even walk in.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reseed or patch problem areas:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> For smaller bare spots, lawn patch and repair products and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/50VXqBVcwSY?si=RYotJxocsvF9Dnus\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">videos<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/s\/lawn%20patch%20and%20repair\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Home Depot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lowes.com\/search?searchTerm=lawn+patch+and+repair\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowe\u2019s<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can give you good results.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Consider sod for quick curb appeal:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If the lawn is in rough shape and you need faster results, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/t9GHY-gQFho?si=Ixj2nVLqNQJ8qNC3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">laying down sod<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can transform the look in just a day.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stay consistent with watering:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A timed sprinkler or simple hose-end sprinkler system can help bring back color before showings.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re on a tight budget, even just mowing, edging, and removing weeds will make a difference. Buyers want to imagine themselves pulling into a yard that feels fresh and welcoming, not like a project waiting for them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/front-yard-curb-appeal\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">18 DIY Front Yard Curb Appeal Tips<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--2\" data-toc-header=\"2. Replace broken windows and torn screens\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>2. Replace broken windows and torn screens<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may think a cracked windowpane or ripped screen is a minor item, so it won\u2019t bother buyers too much during a walkthrough, but windows play a huge role in how people feel about a house. A broken window makes a house feel poorly cared for, and a torn screen can signal to buyers that they\u2019ll need to start making fixes the minute they move in. As with a scruffy lawn, window issues can make them wonder what else has been overlooked.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Replace damaged glass promptly:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> For a single cracked pane, glass repair can often be handled quickly by a local service for an average price of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/window-glass-replacement-cost.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$283<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, according to Angi.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use DIY screen repair kits:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> For about $20, home improvement stores like Ace Hardware and Lowe\u2019s sell kits with replacement mesh and tools that let you re-screen frames at home.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Match existing windows:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you do need to replace an entire unit, choose something that fits the style of the rest of the house. Consistency in appearance matters to buyers \u2014\u00a0even if only on a subconscious level.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep in mind that buyers often linger near windows to check the view and natural light. If what they see is damage or dirt, it leaves a negative impression right where you want them feeling the most excited.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/do-new-windows-increase-property-value\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do New Windows Increase Property Value?<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--3\" data-toc-header=\"3. Fix water damage, leaks, and stains\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>3. Fix water damage, leaks, and stains<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Few things scare homebuyers more than signs of water damage. A brown ceiling stain, a soft spot on drywall, or a musty odor makes people wonder if there\u2019s a bigger problem hiding underneath. Even if the original issue has already been repaired, visible stains or damage suggest neglect and can trigger concerns about mold, plumbing, or roof issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Address the source first:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This may sound obvious, but make sure the original leak is properly fixed before repairing the cosmetic damage, and be certain the repair work is clean and looks professional.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Replace stained drywall or ceiling tiles:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Painting over a water stain without repairing it looks like a cover-up. Replace damaged sections, then repaint. Unless you have these skills, pay a pro to handle this.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Seal and repaint with stain-blocking primer:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If the area is dry and sound, a high-quality primer followed by fresh paint can restore a clean look. The goal is for buyers not to see any sign of a leak, though you may need to report major past damage in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/mandated-disclosures-real-estate\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">disclosure statement<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With all the repairs on our top-seven list, your mission is to reassure buyers that they are making a smart purchase \u2014 that they are buying a well-maintained home. Top real estate agents will tell you that buyers are not just vetting the home, they are vetting the homeowners. If they detect your pride of ownership, it can remove doubts and give them confidence to make an offer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-much-work-to-do-before-selling-house\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Much Work Should You Do Before Selling a House?<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--4\" data-toc-header=\"4. Repair damaged floors and walls\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>4. Repair damaged floors and walls (including paint)<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a seller, it\u2019s helpful to put yourself in the shoes of your potential buyers \u2014 shoes that are walking through a home for the first time. Scratched hardwood, cracked tile, or dinged-up or faded walls can make an otherwise solid home feel worn out. Yes, these are all fixable later, but what would you want if you were buying this house?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Patch and repaint walls:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Fill holes from nails or minor damage, then repaint with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/best-paint-colors-for-selling-a-house\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">neutral color<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that brightens the space. Painting is one of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/improve-home-value\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">highest ROI improvements<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you can make.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Refinish, clean, or repair floors:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Refinish <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-to-deep-clean-hardwood-floors\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">wood floors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with visible scratches and clean stained carpets. According to Angi, the average cost to professionally clean carpets is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/how-much-does-carpet-cleaning-cost.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$182<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and the average cost to rent a carpet cleaner is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/rent-carpet-cleaner-cost.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$45<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Replace damaged tile:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If one or two tiles are cracked, replace them. Hire a professional or check out DIY videos from home repair experts at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=4MDsciUzG4U\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This Old House<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=I0Gm1iG6-XA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ace Hardware<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/oDhDUvQ7D6I?si=aQhUzcnuvXw62pY3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowe\u2019s<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and others.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In a recent <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/real-estate-top-agent-insights-for-q3-2025\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HomeLight survey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, 76% of top real estate agents nationwide said the biggest selling point for buyers in today\u2019s market is a home in move-in ready condition. Fresh walls and floors can instantly make a property feel ready for new owners.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/what-upgrades-increase-home-value\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25 High-ROI Improvements Buyers Love<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"geo-cta widget-cta widget-cta--content     widget-cta--dark widget-cta--dark-blue-gradient\">\n    <div class=\"widget-element--content\">\n        <div class=\"widget-element--content-header\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"homelight logo\" class=\"widget-element--logo\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/ccprototypev5\/images\/logo-small-cta.png\" width=\"106\" height=\"25\" \/>\n        <\/div>\n        \n                <h3 class=\"cta-headline widget--bold\">How Much Is Your Home Worth Now?<\/h3>\n                        <p>Home values have rapidly increased in recent years. How much is your current home worth now? Get a ballpark estimate from HomeLight&#8217;s free Home Value Estimator.<\/p>\n        \n                <div class=\"widget-element--buttons\">\n            <a data-type=\"In Content CTA\" href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/simple-home-value\/quiz?#\/qaas=0\/\" class=\"cta-click-track widget-element--button\">Get Estimate<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--5\" data-toc-header=\"5. Fix or update kitchen appliances\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>5. Fix or update kitchen appliances<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The kitchen is one of the biggest selling points in a home, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/selling-a-house-with-broken-appliances\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">old or broken appliances<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can quickly turn a hopeful showing into a sour impression. As noted above, buyers want to move into a home that\u2019s ready for their lives, which includes cooking. Even if a full <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-much-to-remodel-a-kitchen\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">kitchen remodel<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> isn\u2019t in your budget, updating appliances that are broken or extremely dated will pay off.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Repair first if possible:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If a stove burner or dishwasher looks decent but isn\u2019t working, call a repair service before assuming you need a replacement.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shop for affordable replacements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Look for clean, gently used appliances at local resale centers or scratch-and-dent outlets. (Be certain the scratches or dents are minor.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Focus on a coordinated look:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Matching finishes \u2014 stainless steel, black, or white \u2014 give the kitchen a polished, intentional feel, even if the appliances are used.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many buyers, the kitchen is the heart of a home and a key factor in deciding whether to make an offer or shop elsewhere. Don\u2019t let a broken dishwasher or outdated range stand in the way of your home sale.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/should-i-buy-new-appliances-before-selling-house\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Should I Buy New Appliances Before Selling the House?<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--6\" data-toc-header=\"6. Replace cracked or yellowing grout\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>6. Replace cracked or yellowing grout<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may be surprised to see such a small feature on our list of seven home fixes you must complete before selling\u200b\u200b. However, dingy grout in a bathroom or kitchen will get noticed. These can make the entire space feel dirty. Cracked grout also signals possible moisture issues, which is a bright red flag for buyers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Clean first:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=grout+cleaner&amp;crid=HR51C5CLT3CX&amp;sprefix=grout+cleaner+brush%2Caps%2C116&amp;ref=nb_sb_noss_1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">grout cleaner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=grout+brush&amp;crid=ZZ46B9DKQCUL&amp;sprefix=grout+brush%2Caps%2C160&amp;ref=nb_sb_noss_1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stiff brush<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may be all you need if the grout is just stained. You can find helpful <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/results?search_query=how+to+clean+Tile+and+Grout\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how-to videos on YouTube<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. To hire a pro, the average cleaning job can range between <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/how-much-does-cleaning-tile-and-grout-cost.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$284 and $676<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, according to Angi.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Re-grout problem areas:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> For cracks or discoloration that won\u2019t come clean, re-grouting may be necessary. On average, re-grouting a shower or tub can cost <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/how-much-does-it-cost-regrout-standard-shower-take-out-old-grout-put-new-grout-seal-tub.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$1,500<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. You can also take the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/results?search_query=how+to+re-grout+bathroom+tile\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">DIY route<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but when repaired, buyers should not notice it was ever fixed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Seal new grout:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Applying a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=grout+sealer&amp;crid=89BYUMX9LIKL&amp;sprefix=grout+sealer%2Caps%2C151&amp;ref=nb_sb_noss_1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">grout sealer<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> helps keep it looking fresh and prevents future staining. It\u2019s fairly affordable and easy to apply.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kitchens and bathrooms are personal spaces that buyers scrutinize. If they sparkle, it can help them feel good about your home, giving them more confidence that this will be a sound purchase. Grout may be a small detail, but dirty or cracked grout can have big consequences in a home sale.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/what-to-fix-before-selling-a-house\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Focus on the Right Fixes Before Selling Your House<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"section--7\" data-toc-header=\"7. Eliminate pet damage (and smell)\" data-toc-type=\"head\"><\/div>\n<h2>7. Eliminate pet damage (and smell)<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As much as you love your pets, most buyers don\u2019t want to see (or smell) any evidence of them in the house. Scratched doors, chewed trim, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-to-deodorize-a-house\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lingering odors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or stained carpets are instant turn-offs \u2014 even if the buyers have their own pets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Repair scratched wood or trim:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Sand and repaint or replace damaged sections. Depending on the level of damage, this may require a professional, but this fix can tilt the home-selling scales in your favor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Deep-clean carpets and upholstery:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Hire a cleaning service or rent equipment to remove stains and odors. According to Angi, the average cost of a pet odor removal service is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/pet-odor-removal-service-cost.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$350<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Neutralize and remove odors:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Modern enzyme-based cleaners work well for lingering smells and cost about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=pet+stain+and+smell+removers&amp;crid=35TAMFE5G78IJ&amp;sprefix=pet+stain+and+smell+removers%2Caps%2C170&amp;ref=nb_sb_noss_2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$20 to $35<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Don\u2019t try to just cover them with air fresheners \u2014 buyers will notice.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When today\u2019s buyers walk into your home, they expect to find a house that looks and smells clean. Don\u2019t let them see or sniff distractions. In addition, while your pets may be cute, most top agents recommend relocating them for showings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>\u00bbLearn more:<\/i><\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-to-get-dog-smell-out-of-house\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Get Dog Smell Out of House<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Try our Homebuyer Fear Finder tool<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To review other home issues that can frighten away potential buyers, check out our Buyer Fear Finder tool below:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: none; display: block; margin: 0 auto;\" title=\"HomeLight Buyer Fear Finder Tool\" src=\"https:\/\/homelight-buyer-fear-finder.vercel.app\" width=\"775\" height=\"580\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>A top agent can guide your home sale repairs<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By tackling these seven highly visible home fixes, you can significantly increase your chances of a faster sale and higher proceeds.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re unsure which repairs or updates matter most in your market, a top local real estate agent can guide you on what to fix and what<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/what-not-to-fix-when-selling-a-house\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> not to fix when selling a house<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HomeLight\u2019s free <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/find-real-estate-agents\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agent Match<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> tool connects you with trusted agents in your area who know exactly what buyers are looking for. Our data-backed platform analyzes over 27 million transactions and thousands of reviews to determine which agent is best for you based on your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re <\/span><\/i><b><i>buying and selling at the same time<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, explore HomeLight\u2019s innovative <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/buy-before-you-sell\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buy Before You Sell program<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This modern solution unlocks your equity to streamline the process. Make a <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-non-contingent\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">non-contingent offer<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on your new home and only move once. Watch <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Kg9IaIHZ6Mo\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this short video<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to learn more.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><em>Header Image Source: (sinenkiy \/ Depositphotos)<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Make your home stand out to buyers. Here are 7 home fixes you must complete before selling that will help you sell faster and for more money.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":298,"featured_media":63138,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[233,319],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-63137","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-preparing-to-sell","category-selling-advice"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.0 (Yoast SEO v27.0) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>7 Home Fixes You Must Complete Before Selling\u200b<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Make your home stand out to buyers. 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