7 Home Fixes You Must Complete Before Selling

Sarasota & Manatee Home Refresh Tips from RenoVision

When it’s time to sell, even minor flaws can make a buyer hesitate. A clean, well-maintained home tells buyers it’s move-in ready — and that confidence can translate into faster offers and stronger pricing.

Here are seven must-do fixes to complete before putting your home on the market.

1. Repaint Walls and Trim

Nothing transforms a space faster.

• Choose light, neutral colors — warm whites, soft grays, or greige tones work best for Florida light.
• Touch up doors, baseboards, and trim for a crisp, finished look.
• Avoid bright accent walls unless they complement the home’s overall palette.

RV Tip: In Sarasota’s bright sun, whites with a warm undertone look cleaner and less stark.

2. Repair or Replace Flooring

Buyers notice floors first. Worn or dated flooring instantly lowers perceived value.

• Replace old carpet with luxury vinyl plank (LVP) durable, moisture-resistant, and ideal for coastal climates.
• Deep clean or re-grout tile floors.
• Fix squeaks or gaps — buyers assume poor maintenance elsewhere if flooring feels neglected.

Local favorite: Light oak or sandy-tone LVP gives a coastal-modern feel that buyers love.

3. Update Lighting and Fixtures

Outdated fixtures date the entire home.

• Swap brass for matte black, brushed nickel, or soft gold finishes.
• Install LED bulbs with warm tones (2700K–3000K).
• Replace old faucets, cabinet pulls, and door hardware for a quick style upgrade.

RV Tip: Add modern pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen — small upgrades, big impact.

4. Fix Minor Plumbing and Electrical Issues

Small issues can spook buyers during inspection.

• Tighten leaky faucets and replace worn washers.
• Update outlets and light switches.
• Confirm every light works and ceiling fans run quietly.

RV Tip: Have a handyman walk through before photos — $200–$300 in quick fixes can save you thousands in negotiation later.

5. Refresh the Kitchen and Baths

These two rooms sell homes.

• Refinish cabinets with updated colors like soft white or light gray.
• Add new hardware and quartz or solid-surface countertops.
• Re-caulk around sinks, tubs, and showers for a clean, watertight finish.

Local favorite: Coastal-modern bathrooms with white vanities, brushed nickel fixtures, and quartz counters appeal to Sarasota buyers.

6. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions happen at the curb.

• Pressure wash siding, walks, and driveways.
• Paint the front door in a contrasting color (navy, black, or bronze look sharp).
• Fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, and potted plants make a home feel cared for.

RV Tip: In Manatee’s humid months, keep mildew off soffits and driveway edges — it’s a small thing buyers always notice.

7. Declutter and Deep Clean

Buyers must see space, not stuff.

• Remove personal items and excess furniture.
• Clean windows, baseboards, and ceiling fans.
• Hire a professional crew for a pre-listing deep clean.

Bonus: A spotless home photographs better and photos sell homes before showing

Last Word

Homes that look cared for sell faster, with fewer concessions. RenoVision helps homeowners and agents prepare listings with smart pre-sale updates — from quick refreshes to full renovations — all managed start to finish.