What Repairs Should I Make Before Selling My Home in Manhasset?

Before selling your home in Manhasset, it’s smart to focus on repairs that remove buyer objections rather than chasing expensive renovations. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s making your home feel well cared for, move-in ready, and easy for buyers to say yes to.

Why Repairs Matter More Than Renovations

Manhasset buyers—especially those relocating from the city—are often willing to update kitchens or bathrooms over time. What they’re far less tolerant of are signs of deferred maintenance or hidden problems.

Homes in Munsey Park, Plandome, Strathmore, Flower Hill, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, and North Strathmore tend to sell best when buyers feel confident that the home has been properly maintained.

Eric Berman REALTOR helps sellers identify which repairs actually matter—and which ones won’t impact value.

Repairs That Are Almost Always Worth Doing

These fixes typically provide strong returns by reducing buyer hesitation.

1. Fix Anything That’s Broken

This seems obvious, but it’s often overlooked.

Common examples:

• Loose door handles

• Sticking doors or windows

• Leaky faucets

• Broken light switches

• Non-working outlets

Buyers interpret small issues as signals of bigger neglect.

2. Address Water-Related Issues

Water concerns raise red flags immediately.

Prioritize:

• Roof leaks

• Basement moisture

• Plumbing leaks

• Poor drainage

• Old caulking around tubs and sinks

Even minor water issues can derail negotiations later.

3. Repair or Refresh Flooring

Worn floors stand out quickly.

Recommended steps:

• Refinish scratched hardwood

• Replace torn carpet

• Fix loose floorboards

• Repair cracked tiles

Clean, solid flooring helps buyers focus on the space—not the wear.

4. Patch and Paint

Fresh paint hides a multitude of small flaws.

Focus on:

• Nail holes

• Cracks

• Scuffed walls

• Peeling paint

Neutral colors help buyers imagine themselves in the home.

5. Update Lighting and Electrical Issues

Lighting has an outsized impact on first impressions.

Fix or replace:

• Flickering lights

• Broken fixtures

• Exposed wiring

• Missing cover plates

Bright, well-lit homes show better and photograph better.

Repairs That Matter Depending on the Home

These repairs aren’t always required—but can be important based on condition and competition.

Mechanical Systems

If your systems are old or malfunctioning, buyers will notice.

Consider servicing:

• Heating and cooling systems

• Hot water heaters

• Boilers

• Radiators

Even documentation of recent servicing helps reassure buyers.

Exterior Repairs

First impressions start outside.

Look for:

• Peeling exterior paint

• Cracked walkways

• Broken railings

• Loose steps

• Damaged siding

Homes near main roads or with high visibility benefit most from exterior touch-ups.

Windows and Doors

Drafty or broken windows raise efficiency concerns.

Repair:

• Broken locks

• Fogged panes (if severe)

• Torn screens

You don’t need to replace every window—just address obvious problems.

Repairs That Usually Aren’t Worth Doing

Eric often advises sellers to skip these unless there’s a specific issue.

Typically unnecessary:

• Full kitchen remodels

• Major bathroom renovations

• High-end finishes

• Cosmetic trends that may not appeal broadly

• Luxury upgrades with personal taste

Buyers often prefer choosing these themselves.

Should I Get a Pre-Listing Inspection?

In some cases, yes.

A pre-listing inspection can:

• Identify issues early

• Reduce surprises

• Strengthen negotiation position

Eric helps sellers decide whether a pre-listing inspection makes sense based on the home and market conditions.

How Repairs Affect Inspections and Negotiations

Homes that show care and maintenance often experience:

• Smoother inspections

• Fewer repair requests

• Smaller concessions

• Stronger buyer confidence

Addressing key repairs upfront gives you leverage later.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Helps You Decide

Eric provides sellers with:

• A prioritized repair checklist

• Cost-versus-impact guidance

• Trusted local vendor recommendations

• A prep timeline aligned with your listing date

• Honest advice on what to skip

You’ll never be pushed to overspend.

The best repairs to make before selling your Manhasset home are the ones that remove doubt and build buyer confidence. With Eric Berman REALTOR guiding your preparation, you can focus on practical fixes that help your home sell smoothly—without unnecessary renovation costs.

FAQs

What repairs are most important before selling in Manhasset?
Fixing leaks, broken items, and cosmetic wear usually matters most. Ask Eric Berman REALTOR for a custom repair plan.

Should I renovate my kitchen before selling?
Usually no—minor updates often work better. Contact Eric for guidance.

Do buyers expect move-in-ready homes in Manhasset?
They expect well-maintained homes more than fully renovated ones. Eric can explain buyer expectations.

Is a pre-listing inspection worth it?
Sometimes, depending on condition. Reach out to Eric to decide.

How do repairs affect negotiations?
Good prep often leads to cleaner deals. Request Eric’s advice.

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