Maintenance Tasks You Shouldn’t Ignore When Selling Your Home

When you’re preparing to sell your home, it’s easy to assume that routine maintenance no longer matters — especially once the home is listed or under contract. But staying on top of basic upkeep is still essential. A well‑maintained home shows better, reassures buyers, and helps prevent costly surprises that could delay or derail your sale. Even if you’ve already moved out, these tasks remain your responsibility until closing.

Small issues like a dripping faucet or an overgrown yard can raise red flags for buyers, making them wonder what else might be hiding beneath the surface. More importantly, neglecting routine maintenance can lead to major problems such as leaks, pests, or frozen pipes — all of which can impact your home’s value and your ability to close on time. To keep your sale on track, focus on these six key areas.

1. Maintain the Yard and Walkways

Whether you’re still living in the home or have already moved out, curb appeal matters. Keep the landscaping tidy by removing dead branches, raking leaves, and clearing flowerbeds. Make sure exterior lights are on timers so the home doesn’t appear vacant, and keep walkways shoveled or de‑iced in winter. Avoid letting mail or packages pile up — it signals neglect.

2. Clean the Gutters and Inspect the Roof

Gutters and roofs are easy to overlook, but ignoring them can cause bigger issues. Clogged gutters can lead to drainage problems or foundation damage, and standing water near the entryway is a poor first impression. Have your roof checked before listing to catch small cracks or leaks early — these issues can go unnoticed for years and become costly if discovered during inspection.

3. Service Heating Systems

Your home’s mechanical systems need attention even if you’re no longer living there. Have your furnace and HVAC systems serviced before listing to ensure they run efficiently and don’t produce unpleasant odors during showings. Replace filters, clean ducts, and vacuum baseboard heaters. Keep the thermostat set to a safe temperature — around 66 degrees — to protect pipes and keep the home comfortable for buyers. If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning as well.

4. Prevent Pest Problems

No seller wants to discover that raccoons, squirrels, or rodents have moved in. Inspect the exterior for gaps, damaged siding, or openings near the roofline and seal them promptly. Cover stove and dryer vents with wire mesh to deter pests. A small amount of prevention can save you from a major headache.

5. Wash the Windows

Clean windows make a noticeable difference in how bright and inviting your home feels. Regardless of the season, keep them spotless — especially after storms, when dirt and streaks are more visible. Clear windows help buyers appreciate natural light and views.

6. Stay on Top of Seasonal Tasks

Pay attention to the time of year and adjust accordingly. Store lawn equipment in the fall, put away summer furniture in winter, and remove snow shovels or winter gear in spring. Seasonal clutter can make a home feel neglected and may lead buyers to question how well the property has been maintained overall.

Staying proactive with these simple tasks helps protect your home’s value, reduces the risk of last‑minute issues, and ensures a smoother selling experience. A little maintenance now can save you time, stress, and money as you move toward closing.