What Are the Most Common Repairs to Make Before Selling a Long Island Home?

What are the most common repairs to make before selling a Long Island home?
Before listing your home, addressing small but noticeable issues can have a big impact on buyer perception and final sale price. Eric Berman REALTOR outlines the most common repairs Long Island sellers should make to maximize value and minimize surprises during the inspection process.

Why Pre-Sale Repairs Matter

• Boost Buyer Confidence: A well-maintained home signals that it’s been cared for.

• Avoid Price Reductions: Buyers are less likely to request credits for visible problems.

• Speed Up Closing: Fewer repair negotiations mean a smoother transaction.

Top Pre-Sale Repairs for Long Island Homes

1. Paint and Patching

• Repaint scuffed or outdated walls in neutral tones.

• Patch small drywall holes and touch up baseboards.

2. Fix Leaks and Drips

• Repair leaking faucets, running toilets, and water stains.

• Water issues are red flags for buyers and inspectors.

3. Roof and Gutter Maintenance

• Clean gutters and downspouts.

• Replace missing shingles or fix small leaks before they become inspection issues.

4. Electrical and Lighting

• Replace outdated fixtures and ensure all outlets and switches work.

• Add bright LED bulbs to make spaces feel open and inviting.

5. Flooring Touch-Ups

• Refinish hardwood floors or replace worn carpet.

• Repair cracked tiles or loose grout in kitchens and bathrooms.

6. Windows and Doors

• Replace cracked glass or damaged screens.

• Ensure doors close properly and hardware functions smoothly.

7. Curb Appeal Improvements

• Trim overgrown shrubs, power wash siding, and paint the front door.

• First impressions start at the curb.

Optional but High-ROI Updates

If your budget allows, consider these higher-impact upgrades:

• Kitchen Refresh: Replace cabinet hardware, update lighting, and re-caulk countertops.

• Bathroom Upgrades: Swap outdated faucets, re-grout tiles, and replace mirrors.

• Basement or Attic Cleanup: Show usable, dry, and well-lit spaces.

What Not to Overspend On

• Major kitchen remodels or luxury upgrades rarely provide full ROI.

• Extensive landscaping can be skipped in favor of simple, clean presentation.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Helps Sellers

Eric helps sellers:

• Identify repairs that add the most value

• Connect with trusted Long Island contractors

• Leverage Compass Concierge to cover improvement costs upfront (paid at closing)

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to fully renovate to make a strong impression—just ensure your home looks well-maintained and move-in ready. A few smart fixes can help you attract serious buyers and sell for top dollar.

Not sure which repairs matter most for your home?

Contact Eric Berman REALTOR today for a personalized pre-listing walkthrough and strategy.

Meta Description:
What repairs should you make before selling a Long Island home? Eric Berman REALTOR explains the most common updates that add value and attract buyers.