Before you list, fix the deferred maintenance a buyer's inspector flags first, because each small defect signals the house wasn't kept up and invites a lower offer or a repair credit. The cheapest wins are the visible ones, and a running toilet or a clogged gutter costs a few dollars to fix now and a negotiation later. Handle them before the photos.
Quick pre-sale checklist
- Check the roof for visible damage.
- Fix running toilets and dripping faucets.
- Replace every dead bulb.
- Refresh cracked caulk.
- Clean the gutters.
- Deep-clean the carpets.
- Put in a fresh HVAC filter for showings.
- Touch up exterior paint and patch driveway cracks.
Check the roof for visible damage
Roof condition is one of the first things an inspector and an appraiser look at. Scan from the ground with binoculars for missing or curled shingles and damaged flashing, and have a roofer address obvious problems before they become a negotiating point.
Fix running toilets and drips
A running toilet or a dripping faucet reads as neglect and wastes water on every utility bill a buyer will ask about. A worn toilet flapper or a faucet cartridge is an inexpensive fix; use a dye tab to confirm a silent toilet leak.
Replace every dead bulb
Burned-out bulbs make rooms look dim and unfinished in photos and showings, and a dark fixture makes buyers wonder if the wiring is the problem. Replace them all with matching bulbs so every room shows bright.
Refresh cracked caulk
Cracked, moldy caulk around tubs, showers, and windows looks like a water problem waiting to happen. Pull the failing caulk and reseal it for a clean line that also keeps water out of the wall.
Clean the gutters
Overflowing or plant-filled gutters tell a buyer the basics were skipped, and the water they spill stains siding and pools at the foundation. Clear them and confirm the downspouts drain away from the house.
Deep-clean the carpets
Fresh carpet makes a house feel cared for and removes odors buyers notice immediately. A professional cleaning is cheaper than replacement and pays off in showings.
Put in a fresh HVAC filter
A clean filter keeps the air smelling neutral during showings and signals the system is maintained. It's a two-minute swap that's easy to forget while staging.
Touch up exterior paint and patch the driveway
Chipped trim and cracked driveways drag down curb appeal, which sets the buyer's expectation before they walk in. Touch up the paint and patch obvious cracks for a tidier first impression.
Good maintenance rhythm
The checklist gets you through the pre-listing pass once. Keep showings in shape by sticking with these habits through listing and sale.
- Before listing: check the roof, clean the gutters, and refresh failing caulk.
- Before listing: fix running toilets and dripping faucets and replace dead bulbs.
- Before photos: deep-clean the carpets and put in a fresh HVAC filter.
- Before showings: touch up exterior paint and patch driveway cracks.
- During showings: keep a fresh filter in and bulbs working.
- Ongoing: keep gutters clear so water drains away from the foundation.