When you're getting ready to sell your home, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that you need to do all the things—new floors, full kitchen reno, fancy lighting, trendy tile... the list can go on forever. But the truth? Not every fix or upgrade will actually help you sell faster or get more money in your pocket.As a seasoned REALTOR® working in Vancouver, I’ve seen too many homeowners pour money into the wrong updates before listing.
So let me save you some time, money, and stress by breaking down what not to fix before selling your home.
Don’t Tackle Big, Partial, or Non-Essential Renovations
Thinking of doing a partial kitchen remodel or retiling just one bathroom wall? Pause right there.
Buyers can usually spot when a renovation is only half-done or doesn’t flow with the rest of the house. It may raise more questions than it answers. If it’s not a full transformation or it doesn’t directly solve a problem, you’re better off skipping it. Instead, present the home as a well-loved space with potential—many buyers want to make it their own anyway.
Buyers can usually spot when a renovation is only half-done or doesn’t flow with the rest of the house. It may raise more questions than it answers. If it’s not a full transformation or it doesn’t directly solve a problem, you’re better off skipping it. Instead, present the home as a well-loved space with potential—many buyers want to make it their own anyway.
Avoid Spending Money on Cosmetic Fixes That Won’t Add ValueIt’s tempting to replace countertops, install trendy backsplash tile, or change the cabinet doors. But these types of cosmetic fixes often don’t offer a great return on investment—especially if the bones of the home aren’t in perfect shape.
Instead, focus on maintenance over makeovers. Buyers are looking for well-maintained, not necessarily brand-new.
Instead, focus on maintenance over makeovers. Buyers are looking for well-maintained, not necessarily brand-new.
Focus on Function First: Safety & Structure Matter More
This is where your investment will pay off. Before you worry about staging or paint colours, make sure the major systems in the home are in good working order:
If something’s not working or poses a safety issue, it’s worth fixing. A buyer can look past a dated kitchen—but a leaking roof or faulty wiring? That’s a dealbreaker.
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Roof & gutters
- Stairs and railings
- Decks and patios
- Foundation or structural elements
If something’s not working or poses a safety issue, it’s worth fixing. A buyer can look past a dated kitchen—but a leaking roof or faulty wiring? That’s a dealbreaker.
Don’t Overdo the “Wow” Factor
Yes, curb appeal and first impressions matter. But you don’t need to blow your budget to make the home look “perfect.” A good cleaning, a bit of decluttering, some light landscaping, and maybe a fresh coat of neutral paint can go a long way.
Buyers aren’t expecting a showhome—they want a space that feels solid, cared for, and full of potential.
Buyers aren’t expecting a showhome—they want a space that feels solid, cared for, and full of potential.
Get Advice from a REALTOR® Before Spending a Dime
One of the smartest moves you can make? Talk to your REALTOR® before making any repairs or updates.
We know what buyers in your neighbourhood are looking for, and we can help you decide:
Especially in a market like Vancouver—where the real estate landscape changes fast—strategy matters. Not every improvement is worth doing, and some can even hurt your chances if they’re not done right.
When it comes to prepping your home for sale, don’t get caught in the trap of over-fixing. Focus on clean, safe, and well-maintained. A little goes a long way—and with the right guidance, you can get the best return without overspending.
Thinking of selling and not sure what to fix (or skip)? I’d be happy to walk through your home and help you build a smart game plan.
- What will actually increase your sale price
- What will help your home sell faster
- And what’s just not worth the money or time
Especially in a market like Vancouver—where the real estate landscape changes fast—strategy matters. Not every improvement is worth doing, and some can even hurt your chances if they’re not done right.
When it comes to prepping your home for sale, don’t get caught in the trap of over-fixing. Focus on clean, safe, and well-maintained. A little goes a long way—and with the right guidance, you can get the best return without overspending.
Thinking of selling and not sure what to fix (or skip)? I’d be happy to walk through your home and help you build a smart game plan.