What to Fix (and What to Skip) Before Selling Your Wichita Home

"What to Fix (and What to Skip) Before Selling Your Wichita Home"

By The Stanton Group, LLC – Real Broker | Wichita, Kansas

If you're preparing to sell your home in Wichita, you might be asking:

“Should I fix this before I list—or just sell it as-is?”

You're not alone. Many sellers wonder how much work to put in before going to market. At The Stanton Group, we’ve walked hundreds of Wichita homeowners through smart pre-sale updates that boost value—without overspending.

Here’s a clear guide on what to fix, what to skip, and how to make the most of your home sale.

🛠 Fix These Before You List (If Budget Allows)

These repairs are worth the investment because they impact the buyer’s perception of value, safety, and livability:

✅ 1. Leaks, Plumbing, or Roof Issues

Buyers (and inspectors) will flag these quickly. Small leaks = big red flags.

✅ 2. HVAC, Electrical, or Safety Concerns

Outdated panels, broken outlets, or a non-working A/C system can stall deals—or cost you later in negotiations.

✅ 3. Damaged Flooring

Torn carpet, warped wood, or cracked tile catches buyers’ eyes (and lowers offers).

✅ 4. Peeling Paint & Dingy Walls

Fresh, neutral paint is one of the best ROI upgrades you can make.

✅ 5. Curb Appeal

Trim the bushes, power wash the exterior, and repaint the front door. First impressions matter.

💡 Many of these can be done affordably—and we can recommend local pros if you need help.

🚫 Skip These (They Rarely Pay Off)

Not all updates add value. Here’s what we often advise sellers not to prioritize:

❌ 1. Full Kitchen Remodels

Buyers love updated kitchens—but spending $30K to modernize one right before selling usually doesn’t pay off. Light updates (painted cabinets, new hardware, backsplash) are better.

❌ 2. Luxury Add-Ons

Think: high-end appliances, designer lighting, or custom built-ins. These rarely boost resale value in proportion to the cost.

❌ 3. Window Replacements (Unless Broken)

New windows are great for energy savings but usually don’t tip the scale for buyers unless they’re obviously damaged.

❌ 4. Garage Floor Epoxy or High-End Landscaping

Nice-to-have—but not necessary to get your home sold.

🧠 Our Rule: Function + First Impressions > Flash

Buyers will overlook cosmetic quirks if the home:

• Feels clean, well-maintained, and safe

• Has functional major systems

• Smells fresh and looks move-in ready

✨ You don’t need to renovate—you just need to present the home well.

📋 We Offer Free Pre-Listing Walkthroughs

At The Stanton Group, we:

• Walk through your home with a buyer’s-eye view

• Identify “must-fix” items vs. “nice-to-have”

• Help you prioritize based on your budget, timeline, and goals

You’ll get a custom punch list—not a generic checklist.

🏁 Ready to List, But Not Sure Where to Start?

We’ll help you prep smart, price right, and launch your listing with confidence—whether you fix everything or sell as-is.

📩 Request your free home valuation and prep consultation today.

The Stanton Group, LLC
Real Broker | Wichita, KS
🗺 Serving Wichita, Derby, Andover, Eastborough, College Hill, Maize & nearby neighborhoods