When it’s time to sell your home, first impressions are everything. Potential buyers will judge a property within seconds of stepping through the door—or even from the curb. That’s why taking the time to complete essential home repairs before listing can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells and how much you get for it.
At The Trusted Toolbox, we’ve helped countless Atlanta-area homeowners get their houses ready for the market. From quick handyman fixes to cosmetic updates, here’s a pre-sale repair checklist that can help you attract buyers and pass inspections with confidence.
1. Fix Wall Cracks, Nail Holes, and Paint Touch-Ups
Peeling paint, scuffed walls, or old nail holes from wall décor can make your home feel worn out. Buyers notice these flaws immediately. A fresh coat of neutral paint can modernize your space, brighten rooms, and give buyers a clean slate to imagine their own décor.
Pro Tip: Soft grays and warm whites are buyer favorites and make spaces feel larger.
2. Repair Leaky Faucets and Running Toilets
Plumbing issues—even small ones—are a red flag for home buyers and home inspectors. Fix any dripping faucets, slow drains, or toilets that run constantly. These fixes are affordable and show that the home has been well maintained.
3. Address Sticking Doors and Drafty Windows
Doors that don’t close properly or windows that stick signal foundation movement or poor maintenance. Check all your interior and exterior doors for alignment and function, and re-caulk any window gaps to improve energy efficiency.
Bonus: Sealing drafts also boosts your home’s energy appeal on the listing!
4. Replace Cracked Tiles or Grout in Kitchens and Bathrooms
5. Update Lighting Fixtures and Hardware
You don’t need to do a full renovation to make your home feel modern. Swapping out outdated light fixtures, cabinet handles, and faucets can go a long way in elevating your home’s appearance.
Handyman Tip: Consistency in finishes (brushed nickel, matte black, etc.) creates a cohesive, polished look.
6. Fix Squeaky Floors and Loose Railings
These may not seem like big issues, but they’re noticeable during showings—and they can raise safety concerns during inspections. A handyman can quickly secure floorboards or stair rails to eliminate distractions.
7. Don’t Forget Exterior Curb Appeal
Trim shrubs, refresh mulch, clean siding, and fix any rotting wood or loose shutters. Your exterior is the first thing buyers see—it sets the tone for the rest of the showing.
8. Schedule a Pre-Sale Handyman Walkthrough
Not sure what needs attention? The Trusted Toolbox offers pre-sale handyman evaluations in the Atlanta area. We’ll walk through your home and create a custom repair list so you can tackle the most impactful fixes first.
Why This Matters
Small repairs can make a big difference when it comes to buyer perception, offer amounts, and inspection outcomes. A home that appears well cared-for gives buyers confidence—and that translates into faster offers and better prices.
Ready to List? Let Us Help You Get There.
If you’re preparing to sell your home in Atlanta or the surrounding areas, The Trusted Toolbox is here to help. From small handyman tasks to kitchen and bathroom updates, our skilled team can get your home market-ready—without the stress.