Getting Your Home Ready to Sell: Repairs and Updates Worth Doing
The repairs, decorating and small updates that make the biggest difference before photos and viewings, plus the paperwork buyers will ask for.
First impressions count when you sell. Buyers notice tired paintwork, dripping taps and sticking doors, and they often assume bigger problems are hiding behind them. A few days of well-chosen repairs and decorating can make your home look cared for in photos and at viewings.
The quick answer
- Fix anything visibly broken: handles, taps, sealant, bulbs, loose tiles
- Repaint scuffed walls and woodwork in light, neutral colours
- Deep clean, declutter and tidy the garden
- Make the front of the house welcoming
- Gather certificates and guarantees before you list
Repairs that matter most
| Area | Quick wins |
| Front of house | Paint the front door, repair the gate and fence, clear paths |
| Hall and stairs | Fill and repaint scuffs, fix loose stair carpet |
| Kitchen | Reseal worktops and sink, fix doors and handles, fresh splashback |
| Bathroom | Reseal bath and shower, regrout, fix dripping taps |
| Throughout | Fix sticking doors, replace bulbs, touch up woodwork |
| Garden | Mow, weed, repair fences and clean patios |
Decorating for sale
Light, neutral colours help buyers picture their own furniture in the space and make rooms look bigger and brighter in photos. Focus on the rooms buyers see first: the hall, living room, kitchen and main bedroom.
Paperwork buyers will ask for
- An energy performance certificate, which you need before marketing
- Gas safety and boiler service records
- Electrical certificates for any recent electrical work
- Window and door certificates, such as FENSA
- Building regulations sign-off and any planning consents for extensions, lofts or conversions
- Guarantees for damp proofing, roofing or other work
Gaps in this paperwork can delay a sale, so start gathering it early.
What is usually not worth doing
- A full new kitchen or bathroom just before selling
- Expensive, personal design choices
- Major extensions without planning ahead
Focus on condition and presentation rather than big projects.
Frequently asked questions
Should I repaint before selling?
Often yes, especially scuffed hallways and bold colours. Light neutral colours appeal to most buyers.
Should I replace old carpets?
If they are badly worn or stained, inexpensive new carpet in key rooms can help. Otherwise a deep clean may be enough.
Can you do a list of jobs before our photos?
Yes. Send the list with photos and your photo or listing date.
Related guides
- Painting and decorating guide
- How to reseal a bath or shower
- Painting skirting boards and woodwork
- Replacing kitchen worktops
Send your job list, photos and postcode, or call 07444 262522.