By Korey Welch, Owner of Boom Realty
and Senior Mortgage Broker, Loan Factory

What should I do to maximize the selling price of my home? This is one of the most common and important questions I hear from seniors who are selling their nest egg and moving to something more manageable, closer to the kids, or more affordable.
Preparing your home for sale requires focusing on improvements that maximize appeal while staying cost-effective. Here are critical fixes to address before listing your home:
Curb appeal

  • Landscaping: Trim hedges, mow the lawn, and add fresh mulch or flowers for a welcoming entrance.
  • Exterior maintenance: Pressure wash siding, clean windows, and touch up peeling paint. Ensure the front door and mailbox are in good condition.
  • Roof and gutters: Repair or replace damaged shingles and clean out gutters.
    Interior repairs
  • Walls and paint: Repaint walls with neutral colors to appeal to a wide audience. Repair cracks, holes, or scuffs in the drywall.
  • Flooring: Replace or refinish worn-out floors. Clean carpets or replace them if they are stained or old.
  • Doors and windows: Ensure all doors and windows function properly. Replace broken locks, fix drafts, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows if feasible.
    Kitchen and bathroom updates
  • Minor upgrades: Replace outdated fixtures, cabinet handles, and faucets. Re-grout or re-caulk around sinks, bathtubs, and showers.
  • Deep clean: Ensure all surfaces sparkle, including appliances, countertops, and tiles.
  • Lighting: Replace old or dim light fixtures with modern, brighter options.
    Lighting and electrical
  • Replace burned-out bulbs and ensure all light fixtures match in style and brightness.
  • Fix loose outlets, faulty wiring, or outdated switches.
    Plumbing
  • Repair leaks, running toilets, or dripping faucets. Ensure water pressure is consistent throughout the home.
  • Inspect and service the water heater if necessary.
    Decluttering and depersonalization
  • Remove personal items (family photos, personal collections) and excess furniture to create an open and inviting space.
  • Organize closets and storage areas to showcase their size.
    Safety issues
  • Address hazards such as loose handrails, uneven steps, or missing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Repair or replace cracked driveways or pathways.
    General cleaning
  • Perform a deep clean, including baseboards, vents, and behind appliances.
  • Eliminate odors from pets, smoking, or mold.
    HVAC and insulation
  • Service the HVAC system to ensure it works efficiently and quietly.
  • Seal drafts and improve insulation in key areas to boost energy efficiency.
    Pest control
  • Address any pest infestations, and ensure there are no signs of pests, such as droppings or nests.
    Would you like guidance on specific updates for your property or a budget-friendly strategy?
    Sell smarter!
    Also be very careful when engaging a real estate agent. I have seen a lot of bad advice given by other agents regarding the National Association of Realtors lawsuit settlement changes, which are costing buyers and sellers a lot of money.
    If you are looking to buy or sell, please reach out to me. I only charge a 1% listing agent fee and am routinely saving sellers tens of thousands of dollars in listing fees. I just sold a $2.8 million home in Falmouth and saved the seller $56,000 in listing fees vs. if he listed with another agent.

Korey Welch, owner of Boom Realty and Senior Mortgage Broker (NMLS: 14991) with Loan Factory (NMLS: 320841), is a licensed mortgage broker/real estate broker based in Rockland. For more than two decades, Korey has been helping seniors determine the best fit. For a complimentary consultation, contact him at korey@koreywelch.com, 781-367-3351.