What Should I Fix Before Selling My House in Spokane?

Selling your home can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially when it comes to preparing the property for sale. In a competitive real estate market like Spokane, Washington, making the right repairs and updates before listing can dramatically affect your home's selling price and the speed of the sale. That’s why I’ve created this guide: to help Spokane homeowners like you identify what should I fix before selling my home in Spokane and get the best return possible. I’m a local Spokane Realtor, and I wrote this article to provide practical advice tailored specifically to our market.

What Should I Fix Before Selling My Home in Spokane?

Before you list your property, it's essential to evaluate everything from curb appeal to interior finishes. Knowing what should I fix before selling my home in Spokane can help you stand out in the local real estate market and attract more serious buyers. This section outlines the most critical areas to address to ensure your home shows well and sells quickly.

Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter

• Landscaping Touch-Ups

  Buyers start forming opinions the moment they drive up to your property. Clean up overgrown shrubs, mow the lawn, and plant seasonal flowers for an instant upgrade.

• Repainting the Front Door and Trims

  A fresh coat of paint on your front door, trim, and shutters can instantly modernize your exterior and add to that critical first impression.

• Power Washing Exterior Surfaces

  Remove years of dirt and grime by power washing siding, driveways, and walkways. It’s a quick fix that makes a big visual impact.

Structural and Safety Repairs

• Roof Inspection and Repairs

  A damaged or aging roof can scare off buyers. Repair missing shingles, seal leaks, or consider replacement if the roof is near the end of its life.

• Fixing Foundation Cracks or Uneven Floors

  Foundation issues are red flags for buyers. Have a professional assess and address any visible cracks or sloping floors.

• Electrical and Plumbing Updates

  Replace outdated wiring or leaky pipes. Not only is this safer, but it also avoids red flags during home inspections.

Interior Fixes That Boost Value

• Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings:

  Patch up holes, repair water damage, and ensure all walls are clean and smooth for a polished interior appearance.

• Replacing Worn Carpets or Flooring

  New flooring can give your home a fresh, clean look. Consider replacing stained or worn carpets with hardwood or vinyl planks.

• Fixing Doors, Handles, and Locks

  Fix squeaky doors, replace outdated hardware, and ensure all locks work properly. Small fixes, big impression.

Kitchen Upgrades That Pay Off

• Updating Cabinets and Hardware

  Refacing cabinets or simply updating knobs and handles can transform your kitchen without a full renovation.

• Fixing Leaky Faucets or Malfunctioning Appliances

  Ensure all kitchen fixtures and appliances are in working condition. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient models if budget allows.

• Fresh Paint and Backsplash Touch-ups

  A fresh coat of neutral paint and a modern backsplash can make your kitchen feel clean and contemporary.

Bathroom Improvements That Impress Buyers

• Re-caulking Sinks, Tubs, and Showers

  Old caulk looks dirty and can lead to leaks. Re-caulking is an easy, cost-effective way to refresh your bathroom.

• Fixing or Replacing Old Fixtures

  Modern fixtures add style and function. Replace old faucets, showerheads, and cabinet pulls to instantly upgrade your bathroom.

• Deep Cleaning for Sparkle

  Bathrooms must be spotless. Deep clean tiles, grout, mirrors, and toilets until they shine.

Decluttering and Depersonalizing

• Removing Excess Furniture

  Too much furniture makes spaces feel smaller. Remove bulky or unnecessary items to create a spacious feel.

• Minimizing Personal Photos and Decor

  Buyers need to imagine themselves living in your home. Neutralizing your decor helps them do just that.

• Creating a Neutral Space for Buyers

  Stick to simple color palettes and minimal decoration to make rooms feel calm and universally appealing.

Fresh Paint: Neutral and Bright Colors Sell

• Why Neutral Tones Work Best

  Neutral tones like beige, soft gray, and white appeal to the widest range of buyers and help spaces feel larger.

• High-Impact Rooms to Prioritize

  Focus on painting living rooms, kitchens, and entryways—these are high-traffic areas where paint has the most visual effect.

Lighting Enhancements

• Replacing Outdated Fixtures

  Modern lighting makes a big difference. Swap out dated fixtures for clean, simple designs.

• Ensuring Every Room is Well-Lit

  Make sure every room has ample lighting. Add lamps, open blinds, and use high-wattage bulbs to brighten the space.

Windows and Doors

• Ensuring Smooth Operation

  Buyers will check windows and doors. Ensure they open and close easily and don’t stick or squeak.

• Repairing Drafts and Seals

  Replace worn weatherstripping and fix drafts to improve energy efficiency and comfort.

Staging for Success

• Why Professional Staging Works

  Professionally staged homes often sell faster and for more money. A stager knows how to highlight your home’s strengths.

• DIY Staging Tips That Help

  If hiring a stager isn’t in the budget, rearrange furniture to improve flow, set the dining table, and add some tasteful decor.

Fix vs. Replace: Knowing Where to Invest

Cost vs. Value Considerations

Focus on repairs that offer the highest return. Kitchen and bath upgrades, painting, and flooring generally top the list.

What Not to Fix Before Selling

Skip overly expensive upgrades unless essential. Avoid remodeling rooms that won’t deliver a strong ROI.

Seasonal Considerations in Spokane Real Estate

• Winter Prep: Heating and Insulation

  Make sure your HVAC system is serviced and insulation is up to code. Spokane winters are cold, and buyers want a warm, efficient home.

• Summer Focus: Cooling and Ventilation

  Install ceiling fans or ensure air conditioning systems are in good shape. Summertime buyers will be sensitive to airflow and temperature.

Why Working with a Spokane Realtor Makes a Difference

• Local Market Knowledge

  As a Spokane Realtor, I know what buyers are looking for in this specific market. I can help you prioritize the right fixes.

• Vendor Referrals and Contractor Connections

  Need a painter or handyman? I’ve got connections to reliable, vetted professionals who can get the job done quickly and affordably.

• Strategic Pricing and Marketing

  With my knowledge of Spokane home values and buyer behavior, I’ll help price your home competitively and market it effectively to sell fast.

Conclusion: Make the Right Fixes and Sell Faster

Selling your home doesn't mean you have to renovate everything, but focusing on key repairs and improvements can make a world of difference. By enhancing curb appeal, addressing safety concerns, and presenting a clean, welcoming interior, you set the stage for a successful sale. If you’re still asking, "what should I fix before selling my home in Spokane?"—reach out to me. I’d love to walk through your property and give you personalized guidance. Contact me today to get started with a Spokane Realtor who puts your success first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What are the most important repairs before selling a home in Spokane? Focus on roof integrity, plumbing and electrical systems, curb appeal, and cosmetic upgrades like fresh paint and flooring.

• Is it worth fixing up a house before selling in Spokane? Yes, making strategic repairs can increase your home's market value and help it sell faster.

• What should I not fix when selling my home in Spokane? Avoid expensive full renovations that don't offer high ROI—like luxury remodels of rooms buyers may change anyway.

• How do I sell my house fast in Spokane? Make key repairs, stage the home, price it competitively, and work with a knowledgeable Spokane Realtor.

• Should I get a pre-listing home inspection in Spokane? It depends. It can identify issues early, build buyer trust, and help you avoid surprises during negotiations, however, be prepared to disclose any issues that you don't plan to address.

About Me

My name is Nick Briggs

Being born and raised in Spokane I grew up knowing what a special place this city is, and it was my dream to help others create a life in this wonderful community by guiding them in real estate. I spent many years in the customer service industry, the experience of listening and communication showed me how much I truly loved helping people. I attended Gonzaga University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration to add to my knowledge of guiding, managing, negotiating, and listening to individuals, helping them achieve their real estate goals.

Contact Me