Repair or Replace? A Home Seller’s Quick Guide (Ask Mark)

Not every fix earns its keep. After preparing hundreds of homes across Bay of Quinte, here’s how we decide—fast—what to repair, what to replace, and what to leave alone.

Anette Targowski, realtor

10/12/20251 min read

The golden rule

Fix what buyers see first. That’s Mark’s go-to. If it impacts first impressions, function, or safety, it matters.

A simple decision framework

  1. Safety & Compliance: Smoke/CO detectors, handrails, GFCI outlets, trip hazards. Always do these.

  2. Function: Drippy faucets, sticky doors, running toilets, burnt-out bulbs. Low cost, high trust.

  3. Aesthetics in the “first 60 seconds”: Entry, living room sightline, kitchen surfaces. Paint often beats replacement.

  4. Big Systems: Furnace/AC, roof, windows. If functioning, disclose age and service history rather than replacing.

  5. ROI Reality Check: If a $1,500 project won’t improve photos, showings, or negotiations, skip it.

Quick hits that nearly always pay off

  • Paint (light, clean, neutral).

  • Lighting upgrades. Bright = bigger and newer.

  • Hardware refresh. Knobs, pulls, door handles modernize fast.

  • Curb appeal: Edging, mulch, front door touch-up, house numbers.

  • Caulking & grout: Makes “used” look “cared-for.”

When to repair

  • Appliances work but look tired ⇒ Clean thoroughly, replace a missing knob, add a fresh gasket.

  • Bathroom fans hum ⇒ Replace the fan, not the whole bath.

  • Cabinet doors misaligned ⇒ Adjust hinges; buyers notice “quiet closes.”

When to replace

  • Damaged flooring in main living areas.

  • Peeling laminate on cabinet doors.

  • Heavily stained countertops that ruin photos.

  • Broken or fogged feature windows that impact views.

When to disclose (and price accordingly)

  • Older but working furnace/roof/windows. Provide service records and expected lifespan.

  • Past issues that were repaired properly—bring invoices. Transparency builds negotiating power.

Mark’s “Saturday Rule”

If we can fix it in a single Saturday with basic tools and a modest budget, we almost always do it. If it’s a multi-week project with uncertain ROI, we stage around it and price strategically.

Want a custom repair vs. replace list for your home?
Call 705-957-4177 or visit downsizinginbayofquinte.com.
Stress-free downsizing starts here, with me and my team.

Not every fix earns its keep. After preparing hundreds of homes across Bay of Quinte, here’s how we decide—fast—what to repair, what to replace, and what to leave alone.