The question I get asked the most from sellers is what to fix and what not to fix/spruce up before putting home on the market.
My top projects that make an impact with potential buyers are interior painting, carpet cleaning and landscaping.
Freshening up paint and replacing hardware can give the kitchen an updated look inexpensively. When choosing paint colors throughout the house, think neutral — whites, eggshell, light gray or beige to appeal to more prospective buyers. A simple thing like a fresh coat of paint will make everything bigger and brighter.
The outside of the house provides a buyer’s first impression, so be sure to spruce that up. That may be as simple as putting attractive potted flowers on either side of the door and making sure the snow is shoveled and lawn is mowed.
If the carpet is in bad shape, I recommend replacing it. If not have it cleaned. Buyers are can be turned off by soiled carpets, and having to replace the carpet might be too much work for them.
The goal for homeowners looking to sell should be to get the most return on their investment. I find that remodeling projecting typically offer poor resale value.
The things that are going to bring you more money are an updated kitchen, a finished basement (which adds space to the property), and adding another bathroom or updating the primary bathroom. A simple inexpensive thing like changing out the hardware in the bathrooms and kitchen and swapping out the light fixtures are little items that will go a long way with buyers.
Stay away from (some) cheap fixes. Hire reputable contractors and be sure to save all receipts and share them with the buyer. Make sure you save all receipts and share with buyer.
Lastly, if something is broken, fix it. If something is just plain old, I would price the home accordingly.