When buyers tour a house, they’re often coming in with an eagle eye, searching for any signs that it hasn’t been well maintained.

That’s why it’s crucial to make certain repairs before putting yours on the market. By addressing key issues, you can increase your home’s appeal and potentially fetch a better price.

What to consider

Before starting to make improvements in your home, you’ll want to assess which updates may offer the best return on investment. Not every repair will be worth the cost, so prioritize those most likely to improve your property’s value and appeal to a broad range of buyers. For instance, an outdated kitchen may not warrant a full renovation since your investment may not equal the potential return. Instead, consider if it is in working order, looking at the functionality instead of aesthetics, which will leave room for new owners to make changes as they desire.

As you assess which updates to conduct, factor in your home’s age and condition, the current real estate market, and how much you’re willing to spend. It’s also helpful to consult with a real estate agent, who can provide insight into what buyers in your area are looking for. In some cases, minor cosmetic fixes may be enough, while in others, more significant renovations could be necessary to maximize your home’s value. As a starting point, here are the top ones that may prove most lucrative regardless of your individual situation.

Patch up walls and ceilings

Inside your home, one of the easiest yet most important repairs is fixing walls and ceilings—small cracks, scuffs, water stains, and the like can suggest neglect and raise concerns about the overall condition of the property. Make sure to patch any holes and touch up the paint, choosing neutral tones that appeal to a wide audience. And if there are any visible cracks or water stains in your ceiling, take care of these issues immediately, addressing any underlying problems like a leak in your roof. If left unattended, they could grow into more serious issues that may send potential buyers running for the hills.

Correct plumbing problems

Plumbing issues, even minor ones, can be a deal-breaker for buyers since they often turn into bigger issues with a hefty price tag. To keep them interested, take care of leaky faucets, running toilets, and low water pressure before listing your home. Fixing these relatively small problems can prevent a buyer from questioning whether they’ll be faced with a major plumbing bill shortly after moving in.

Spruce up your HVAC system

A well-maintained HVAC system is an essential component of every home, ensuring the comfort and safety of those living in it. For those reasons, it’s a feature that many homebuyers prioritize when looking for their next place; they will notice if the inside of yours is muggy in summer or freezing in winter. Ideally, you would have conducted regular maintenance over the years to keep it in tip-top shape, including replacing air filters, cleaning vents, and getting it serviced annually. However, if you weren’t quite so diligent, now is the time to get it in good working order by having a professional do a complete tune-up. If they find that yours is beyond repair, it may be worth replacing it before listing your home.

Address structural issues

Problems in a home’s structure, especially with its foundation, are huge red flags for potential buyers. Some common signs of potential issues are cracks in walls or floors, uneven doors, and sloping floors. If you notice any of these, be sure to hire a professional to inspect your property, assess the damage, and make necessary repairs. A documented fix can provide visitors with peace of mind and help to get ahead of any concerns that may otherwise be found during a future home inspection.

Inspect and repair your roof

The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so be sure to inspect yours, looking for missing shingles, leaks, or sagging areas. Minor repairs to the former two can be done affordably and make a big difference in your home’s marketability. But if your roof is older or in very poor condition, replacing it might be a more worthwhile investment. A new roof can make buyers feel more confident in your home’s long-term durability—a significant selling point.

By tackling these and other essential repairs, you’ll help your home make a strong first impression, increase its value, and improve the chances of a faster sale. A trusted real estate agent can help you determine what issues should be fixed before putting your house up for sale. In the end, a little effort and attention to detail will go a long way in making it stand out in a competitive market.