If you’re selling or buying a home, small maintenance issues can cause bigger problems than you think. Deals fall apart over things that should’ve been handled early. Inspections bring it all out, and at that point, you’re either fixing it in a rush or losing leverage. Here’s what to check before it becomes a headache.
Leaks and water stains
Any sign of water makes people nervous. Drips under sinks, stained ceilings, damp basements—they all raise questions. Even if it’s old damage that’s been fixed, you need to clean it up and be ready to explain it. Buyers will notice.
Heating and cooling
If you haven’t had your furnace or heat pump serviced in a while, do it. Dirty filters, uneven heating, or strange noises are red flags. Buyers assume it’s expensive to fix, and they’re usually right.
Paint, caulking, and small stuff
Peeling trim. Cracked caulk around tubs and windows. Scuffed walls. None of it is serious, but together it gives the impression that the home hasn’t been looked after. You don’t need a full repaint, but patch and clean where it counts.
Roof problems
Missing shingles, moss buildup, or sagging gutters can slow things down fast. Most buyers will ask about the roof’s age. If it’s been a while since it was looked at, get someone in before the home hits the market.
Electrical quirks
Loose outlets, broken light switches, flickering bulbs—these are all easy to fix but can turn into inspection notes and buyer demands. If something’s not working, deal with it ahead of time.
Appliance issues
If your stove doesn’t work right or your dishwasher is making noise, don’t leave it. Buyers will test these things. You’re better off repairing or replacing than hoping nobody notices.
The outside counts too
First impressions matter. Overgrown bushes, cracked walkways, or peeling steps set the tone. A little clean-up goes a long way.
Basements and crawl spaces
These are big ones. Clean them out. Watch for signs of water or pests. Make sure the inspector doesn’t find something before you do.
If you’re buying, keep your eyes open for these same things. Don’t assume a place was well taken care of just because it looks clean on the surface.
Maintenance shows how a home has been lived in. Getting ahead of the issues gives you fewer problems later—no matter which side of the deal you’re on.
