Preparing an Old Home for Sale as a Real Estate Agent
Everyone wants a house of their own, especially in America where the housing market is so big. Besides, in the US, owning a house is less about prestige and more about a sense of security.
The US real estate market, as of 2025, is set to witness a rise to the staggering value of $136.62 trillion. Sadly, the housing market, at the moment, seems a bit too unforgiving to buyers.
Research suggests that house prices in the US are set to rise by 3 percent overall this year. This is having a drastic impact on people’s buying choices as home sales have already dropped this year. This is because house prices hit an all-time high for January 2025.
However, people are still buying houses; old ones, in particular. This is mostly because old, pre-owned houses are cheaper. And the duty to prepare such a house for sale falls on real estate agents.
Selling an old home comes with its own set of challenges, but as a real estate agent, you already know that presentation is everything. From curb appeal to necessary repairs, let’s go over the key steps you need to take to get an old home market-ready.
Enhancing the Home’s Exterior Appeal
First impressions are powerful, and the exterior of a home sets the tone for what buyers expect inside. If the paint is peeling or the front door looks worn out, potential buyers may assume the rest of the house has been neglected.
A fresh coat of paint on the siding and trim can do wonders. Replacing or repainting the front door can also make the home feel more inviting.
The driveway and walkway should be free of cracks, weeds, and stains. If necessary, power-washing the driveway can remove years of dirt and grime. The mailbox and house numbers should be clean and visible, adding to the property’s charm.
These small details collectively make the home feel well-maintained, which helps justify the asking price.
Ensuring the Cleanliness of the Lawn
Landscaping plays a major role in boosting your listing’s curb appeal. A well-kept lawn can make all the difference in how potential buyers perceive the home.
Overgrown grass, dead patches, and clutter can make even the most charming house look neglected. Regular mowing, edging, and fertilizing can give the lawn a lush, healthy appearance that instantly increases curb appeal.
One thing that is often overlooked is pet waste. If the previous owners had dogs, there’s a good chance that some waste has been left behind.
No buyer wants to step onto the lawn and find a mess. Hiring a pet waste service is a quick and efficient way to ensure the lawn is spotless. Simply search for something like – dog poop pick-up service near me. Then, let Google recommend the best dog waste removal services around you.
A professional pet waste removal service can clear the yard of any lingering debris, making the space more inviting for showings. Also, according to Scoop Soldiers, these services will take care of lingering bad odors and harmful bacteria left behind from the waste.
Many dog owners use a dog poop pick-up service regularly. However, even if that wasn’t the case, now is the perfect time to ensure the yard is clean. Proper waste management is essential for keeping outdoor spaces fresh and ready for new owners.
Addressing Necessary Repairs
Old homes often have a lot of character, but they can also have a long list of maintenance issues. Before listing the home, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection and take care of any major repairs. Buyers tend to shy away from homes with obvious problems, especially structural ones.
Start by checking the roof for missing shingles, leaks, or sagging areas. The foundation should be inspected for cracks, as these can be red flags for potential buyers.
Plumbing and electrical systems also need to be in top shape. Outdated wiring, leaky pipes, or a failing water heater can make buyers hesitant to move forward. If necessary, bring in professionals to handle the repairs so the home is in the best condition possible when it hits the market.
Updating Key Interior Spaces
Buyers may appreciate the charm of an old home, but they don’t want to feel like they’re stepping back in time.
In the kitchen, replacing outdated cabinet hardware, installing modern lights, and adding a fresh coat of paint can make the space feel more contemporary. If the budget allows, upgrading appliances can also make a difference. In bathrooms, re-caulking tubs and sinks, swapping out old faucets, and ensuring proper ventilation can give the space a cleaner, newer feel.
Fresh paint throughout the home in neutral tones can brighten rooms and make them feel more spacious. Replacing worn-out carpets or refinishing hardwood floors also goes a long way in making the home feel move-in ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do agents often fail to sell a house even after multiple attempts?
Agents may struggle to sell a house due to overpricing, poor marketing, or an undesirable location. If the home has major structural issues, outdated features, or a bad reputation, buyers might be hesitant. Also, ineffective staging, limited online exposure, or inflexible sellers unwilling to negotiate can deter potential buyers and prolong the selling process.
What makes a house less appealing to potential buyers?
A house with outdated interiors, poor curb appeal, or visible maintenance issues can discourage buyers. Factors like bad odors, awkward layouts, and excessive personalization, such as bold paint colors or clutter, can make it harder to sell. Additionally, a property in a noisy neighborhood or near undesirable establishments may be less attractive to potential buyers.
Do buyers inquire about paranormal activities when looking for a house?
Some buyers, especially those who are superstitious or believe in the supernatural, do ask about paranormal activity. This is particularly common in older homes with a mysterious past. While not a standard question, reports of hauntings or tragic events can affect a home’s desirability and even its market value.
Preparing an old home for sale takes effort, but with the right approach, you can turn a dated property into a desirable listing. The key is to present the home in a way that highlights its strengths while minimizing any concerns buyers might have.
With attention to detail and a focus on making the home move-in ready, you can turn any old house into someone’s dream home.