Essential Repairs to Make Before Listing Your FSBO Home

28 July 2025

Selling your home on your own, known as For Sale By Owner (FSBO), can be both exciting and daunting. You’re in control of the process, but that also means you’re responsible for every detail—including the repairs that could make or break a sale.

Imagine a potential buyer walking into your home, excited about the possibility of making it theirs. But instead of being wowed, they instantly notice peeling paint, leaky faucets, or a broken stair railing. Their interest starts to fade, and suddenly, your home is just another “no.”

Don’t let repair issues scare away buyers or drag down your home’s value. Making the right fixes before listing can help you sell faster and for more money. Let’s dive into the essential repairs you should prioritize before putting that FSBO sign in your yard.

1. Fix Major Structural Issues First

If your home has foundational cracks, sagging floors, or a leaking roof, these are red flags for buyers. Structural problems can make or break your sale, and many buyers won’t even consider a home with major defects.

Roof Repairs

A roof in poor condition can quickly turn buyers away. Missing shingles, leaks, or visible sagging? Fix these issues before listing to prevent concerns about water damage and long-term integrity.

Foundation and Structural Integrity

Cracks in your foundation or uneven floors may indicate serious structural issues. Hire a professional to assess and repair these problems before they send buyers running.

Plumbing and Electrical Systems

Outdated or faulty plumbing and electrical systems can lead to costly repairs for buyers—and they know it. If you have leaky pipes, flickering lights, or an outdated electrical panel, addressing these issues beforehand can make your home more appealing.

2. Address Water Damage and Mold

Water damage is a red flag that screams “expensive repairs” to buyers. If you’ve had leaks—whether from the roof, plumbing, or basement—make sure they’re fully repaired and any resulting mold is properly removed.

Repair Leaks and Stains

No one wants to see brown water stains on ceilings or walls. Even if the issue has been fixed, buyers assume the worst when they see any sign of past water damage. Repair drywall, repaint stained areas, and ensure there’s no lingering moisture in problem spots.

Mold Removal

Mold can be a major deal-breaker. If you detect musty smells or visible mold growth, it’s crucial to remove it properly. This may require professional remediation, but it’s worth it to ensure buyers feel confident about your home.

3. Freshen Up Interior and Exterior Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to breathe new life into your home. It instantly makes rooms look cleaner, brighter, and more modern.

Choose Neutral Colors

Even if you love bold colors, potential buyers might not. Stick to neutral shades like beige, gray, or soft whites to appeal to a broader range of buyers. These colors make spaces feel larger and more inviting.

Don’t Forget Curb Appeal

The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see. If your front door, trim, or siding is chipped or faded, giving it a fresh coat of paint enhances curb appeal. A well-maintained exterior sets a positive tone before buyers even step inside.

4. Repair Flooring Issues

Your floors take a beating over the years. Scratched hardwood, worn-out carpeting, and cracked tiles can make your home feel older and poorly maintained.

Hardwood Floors

If you have hardwood floors, consider refinishing them. Scratches and dullness can often be remedied with a fresh coat of stain and sealant, instantly reviving their beauty.

Carpet Replacement or Deep Cleaning

Old, stained carpets are a major turnoff. If your carpet is in decent shape, a professional deep cleaning might do the trick. If it’s beyond saving, consider replacing it with new carpeting or more modern laminate or vinyl flooring.

Fix Cracked Tiles and Loose Floorboards

Cracked tiles or creaky, uneven floors can make buyers wonder about the overall condition of your home. Repair or replace damaged sections to ensure everything looks solid and well-maintained.

5. Update the Kitchen and Bathrooms (Without Breaking the Bank)

Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. But that doesn’t mean you have to undergo a full renovation. Small, budget-friendly repairs can significantly improve the appeal of these critical spaces.

Fix Cabinets and Hardware

Loose or outdated cabinet handles? Replace them! Peeling laminate or chipped wooden cabinets? A new coat of paint or fresh finish can work wonders.

Repair Leaky Faucets and Running Toilets

Dripping faucets and running toilets aren’t just annoying—they signal neglect. Fixing small plumbing issues can reassure buyers that your home is well-maintained.

Re-grout and Caulk

Nothing makes a bathroom look older than dirty, cracked grout or dingy caulk. Taking the time to re-grout tile and refresh caulk around sinks, tubs, and showers can make the space feel cleaner and newer.

6. Check Doors, Windows, and Locks

Buyers will test doors and windows as they walk through your home. If they notice drafty windows, sticking doors, or broken locks, it creates doubt about the overall condition of the house.

Fix Drafty Windows

If your windows are letting in cold air, it’s a sign they may need replacing or at least resealing. Proper insulation helps with energy efficiency, which buyers love.

Repair or Replace Broken Door Handles and Locks

Something as small as a loose doorknob or a jammed lock can make buyers question the overall maintenance of the home. Ensure all doors open and close smoothly.

7. Ensure HVAC and Appliances Are in Working Order

A broken furnace in the winter or AC in the summer is a quick way to send buyers packing. Ensure your HVAC system is functioning properly and has recently been serviced.

Clean and Maintain HVAC Systems

Replacing an entire HVAC system is expensive, so buyers want to know yours is in good shape. Clean filters, service the unit, and make sure it's running efficiently.

Test Appliances

If appliances come with the home, ensure they’re in good working order. Buyers will test dishwashers, ovens, and garbage disposals—don’t let a malfunctioning appliance ruin your chances.

8. Improve Curb Appeal with Simple Fixes

First impressions matter. A neglected yard, broken fence, or overgrown landscaping can instantly give buyers a negative impression.

Fix Cracks in the Driveway and Walkway

Small cracks may not seem like a big deal, but they can make buyers think about bigger underlying issues. Repairing and sealing cracks can tidy up the home’s appearance.

Trim Overgrown Shrubs and Add Fresh Mulch

A little yardwork goes a long way. Trim trees and bushes, mow the lawn, and add fresh mulch for a welcoming exterior.

Upgrade Exterior Lighting

Good lighting makes your home feel safe and inviting. If porch lights are outdated or non-functional, replace them with modern fixtures.

Final Thoughts

Selling FSBO means making your home as marketable as possible, and repairs play a crucial role in that. You don’t need a full-blown renovation—just focus on fixing what’s broken, outdated, or unappealing. Buyers will notice, and your home will stand out in a competitive market.

By taking care of these essential repairs before listing, you’ll create a home that buyers can’t resist. And who knows? That extra effort might just get you a better offer than you expected!