What NOT to Fix Before Selling Your Home in Manhattan, Kansas

Are you thinking about pouring a ton of money into your home before putting it on the market? You’re not alone—many sellers wonder if every scratch, dent, or outdated fixture needs to be replaced in order to get top dollar. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to spend thousands fixing things that won’t actually make a difference to buyers.

I’m Kyle Powers, your Manhattan, KS real estate expert, and today I’m breaking down the things you should NOT fix before selling your house. Let’s dive in.

1. Minor Cosmetic Fixes

Small scuffs on the wall, scratches on the floor, or a smudge on the ceiling? Don’t stress. These minor imperfections usually don’t show up in listing photos or videos, and most buyers overlook them during showings. Focus instead on the bigger picture—finishing any partial paint jobs, tightening loose doorknobs, and giving your home a good cleaning. The rest can be handled later through negotiations if needed.

2. Old (But Working) Appliances

If your oven, dishwasher, or microwave works just fine, don’t waste money replacing them. Buyers often prefer choosing their own appliances anyway. Whether your oven is $300 or $3,000, most buyers see it the same way—it’s an oven. Unless something is broken, leave your existing appliances in place and save yourself the expense.

3. Over-the-Top Landscaping

Curb appeal matters, but you don’t need to go overboard. Fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, and a tidy flower bed go a long way. Extravagant landscaping projects—like importing decorative stone or installing elaborate garden features—won’t bring the return on investment you might expect. Keep it simple and clean.

4. Outdated Décor

That gold doorknob or faucet might scream “1990s,” but replacing every little detail adds up fast. Buyers aren’t expecting designer hardware throughout the home. Instead, focus on decluttering and depersonalizing—think removing heavy curtains or outdated window treatments. Small tweaks make a home feel fresher without blowing your budget.

5. Minor Issues

Leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or a slightly loose doorknob? Don’t panic. As long as it’s not a major repair (like plumbing leaks, broken windows, or a front door that won’t close properly), these small things aren’t deal-breakers. In fact, a wise old contractor once told me: “Give buyers something to find.” If they spot a minor issue, they’re less likely to go digging for bigger problems.

Work With an Experienced Manhattan, KS Realtor

At the end of the day, knowing what not to fix before selling your home comes down to experience. As a real estate agent who sells about 60 homes a year in Manhattan, KS, I walk my sellers through exactly what matters—and what doesn’t. A few weeks before we list, I’ll personally tour your home with you, point out the simple and cost-effective fixes, and save you the stress of wasting time and money on projects that won’t pay off.

Ready to Sell Your Home in Manhattan, Kansas?

Whether you’re thinking about listing next week or next year, I’d love to help you create a smart selling strategy. I’ll walk through your home, help you prioritize projects, and make sure you get the most value without unnecessary spending.

📞 Call or text me anytime at (785) 477-5485
📧 Email me at kyle@homesforsalemhk.com