What Repairs Are Worth Making Before Selling Your Home on Long Island?

Before listing your home, it’s normal to wonder which repairs are worth doing — and which ones aren’t. For Long Island homeowners, smart preparation can help your property stand out in a competitive market without wasting money on unnecessary upgrades. The goal is simple: fix what buyers notice, skip what they don’t, and create confidence that your home is well cared for.

Start With the Essentials

Buyers expect the basics to be in good working order. Small issues can raise red flags that make buyers wonder what else might be wrong.
Here’s where to start:

  • Fix leaky faucets or running toilets. Plumbing problems make buyers think “expensive repair.”

  • Replace burnt-out lightbulbs and broken fixtures. Good lighting makes spaces feel bright and inviting.

  • Ensure doors and windows open smoothly. A sticky door or drafty window can leave a bad impression.

  • Service your HVAC system. A recent tune-up signals responsible maintenance.

These fixes are inexpensive yet often pay off immediately in how buyers perceive your home.

Focus on First Impressions

Curb appeal matters on Long Island — especially when your home is competing against similar listings nearby.

  • Power wash siding, decks, and driveways.

  • Repaint the front door in a modern, welcoming color.

  • Clean up landscaping and replace old mulch.

  • Repair cracked steps or uneven walkways.

A buyer’s first impression starts at the curb — and often determines how they feel about the rest of the home.

Address Obvious Eyesores Indoors

You don’t need to remodel your kitchen or bathroom to impress buyers, but small visual improvements go a long way.

  • Paint walls in neutral tones to freshen the look.

  • Replace outdated cabinet hardware for a quick, inexpensive upgrade.

  • Re-caulk tubs and sinks to make them look clean and new.

  • Patch small holes or scuffs on walls for a move-in-ready feel.

Homes that look cared for often sell faster and closer to asking price.

Skip Major Overhauls

Big-ticket renovations rarely return their full cost before selling. Avoid starting large-scale projects unless they’re necessary for safety or functionality. For example:

  • Don’t replace perfectly good countertops or flooring unless they’re badly damaged.

  • Avoid remodeling entire rooms right before selling — buyers may prefer to customize later.

  • Focus your time and money on small updates that make the biggest impact.

Your REALTOR can help you identify where small changes yield maximum return.

Get Professional Guidance Before You Spend

Every home — and market — is different. Eric Berman REALTOR offers personalized advice for Long Island homeowners to help determine which updates will deliver the best return on investment. With a pre-listing walkthrough, he can pinpoint where to spend wisely and where to save your money.

Selling With Confidence

Preparing your home doesn’t mean overhauling it. By focusing on the right repairs and avoiding unnecessary projects, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and attract serious buyers. With expert advice and a clear plan, you can move forward confidently knowing your home is market-ready.

FAQs

What repairs should I make before selling my Long Island home?
Fix basic issues like leaks, lighting, and cosmetic damage. For a personalized list, contact Eric Berman REALTOR.

Should I renovate my kitchen or bathroom before listing?
Not usually — small updates are often enough. Get tailored advice from Eric Berman REALTOR.

Does painting help my home sell faster?
Yes. Fresh, neutral colors make spaces feel bright and well cared for. Learn what buyers prefer from Eric Berman REALTOR.

What fixes offer the best ROI before selling?
Minor cosmetic repairs, landscaping, and lighting updates. Get data-backed insights from Eric Berman REALTOR.

Should I do a pre-listing inspection?
It can help uncover small issues before buyers do. Find out if it’s right for your home through Eric Berman REALTOR.

Blog URL:
https://www.theericbermanteam.com/blog/what-repairs-are-worth-making-before-selling-your-home-on-long-island

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com