Fix It or Forget It?: What Repairs REALLY Matter Before Selling Your Home

Deciding whether to invest in home repairs before selling can feel overwhelming—especially in a competitive housing market like Albuquerque. Do you fix everything and hope to recoup the costs? Or sell as-is and accept a lower offer?

At Sage Home Offers, we work with sellers every day who face this very question. In this article, we’ll walk through the most common repairs homeowners consider, how much they can cost, and how you may be able to skip them entirely while still receiving a fair, fast cash offer.

Why Do Sellers Fix Homes Before Listing?

Real estate agents and industry experts often recommend pre-sale repairs to increase buyer interest, avoid inspection-related price drops, and potentially boost the final sale price. Buyers today are increasingly picky. Many are unwilling to take on repair projects, and homes in excellent condition tend to sell faster and at higher prices.

However, these improvements come at a cost—sometimes tens of thousands of dollars. And that assumes you have the time, funds, and reliable contractors to do the work.

The Most Expensive Repairs Before Selling

*Prices are taken from Angi.com “Project Cost Center”

1. Roof Repairs or Replacement

• Average Cost: $7,000 – $13,000+
  Roof issues are a red flag for buyers. Leaks, missing shingles, or signs of wear can cause sales to fall apart late in escrow.

2. HVAC System Replacement

• Average Cost: $5,000 – $10,000
  An old or inefficient system can cause concern during inspections, especially during hot Albuquerque summers or chilly winter nights.

3. Kitchen Remodel

• Average Cost: $15,000 – $25,000+
  Buyers want modern kitchens—but full remodels rarely give you dollar-for-dollar returns.

4. Bathroom Remodel

• Average Cost: $8,000 – $15,000
  Bathrooms are high-impact, but expensive. Outdated tile, vanities, and fixtures can turn off potential buyers.

5. Foundation & Structural Repairs

• Average Cost: $10,000 – $40,000
  Cracks in walls or sloping floors are red flags. These are among the most costly repairs and can delay a sale.

6. Water Damage or Mold Remediation

• Average Cost: $2,500 – $10,000+
  Stains, odors, or visual signs of damage immediately signal buyers to run. Mold requires professional remediation.

7. Electrical or Plumbing Updates

• Average Cost: $3,000 – $8,000
  Outdated or unsafe systems (think Federal Pacific electrical panels..) often need to be brought to code—especially if your buyer is using financing.

These costs add up fast. Many homeowners simply can’t or don’t want to take on these projects before selling.

What Minor Updates Still Matter?

If you choose to go the traditional route, focus on lower-cost, high-impact items like:

• Fresh paint in neutral colors

• Cleaning and decluttering

• Lighting updates and working bulbs

• Simple landscaping for curb appeal

These updates help create a clean slate—but even these cost time and money.

An Alternative: Sell As-Is, Stress-Free

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to spend thousands on repairs to sell your house.

At Sage Home Offers, we buy homes throughout Albuquerque as-is, regardless of condition. Whether your home needs a new roof, kitchen update, or a full overhaul—we'll still make you a fair, no-obligation cash offer.

We take on these projects because we’re crazy… Just kidding, we actually enjoy this kind of work! We take pride and pleasure in updating homes in ways that future homeowners love.

Benefits of Selling As-Is to Sage Home Offers:

• No Repairs: Skip the stress, time, and expense of fixing up your home.

• No Fees or Commissions: Save 5–6% off the top.

• No Showings or Open Houses: Maintain your privacy and your routine.

• Fast Closings: We can close in 7–14 days, or on your timeline.

• Certainty: No financing fall-throughs, no last-minute inspection surprises.

Sellers can easily save $10,000–$50,000 by skipping repairs and commissions, by selling as-is. That’s money you keep—or use to fund your next move.

Should You Fix It or Forget It?

If you're facing expensive repairs and want to sell without delay, reach out to Sage Home Offers. We’re a local, trusted Albuquerque homebuyer that helps homeowners get out from under repair-heavy homes while still receiving a fair price.

There’s no obligation, so even if you’re just curious, give us a call. You can walk away anytime. It’s an easier way to sell.

📞 Call us today at 505-228-6414 or fill out our online form to get started with a free, no-obligation cash offer.