06/22/2026
Most homeowners focus on the things they can’t control:
The market.
Interest rates.
Inventory.
The neighbor who hasn’t mowed their lawn in three weeks.
But if we’re talking about maximizing your home’s value, there are a few things that are completely within your control.
1. Water where it shouldn’t be.
Leaking gutters. Poor drainage. Ground sloping toward the house. Excess moisture in a crawlspace or basement.
These may seem like small issues today, but given enough time they can become expensive problems that buyers (and inspectors) notice immediately.
2. Incomplete projects.
A lot of homeowners assume they’ll get credit for the money they’ve already invested.
Unfortunately, buyers usually see unfinished projects as one more thing they’ll have to deal with after closing. In many cases, an incomplete project can hurt value more than not starting it at all.
3. Overly personal updates.
I will always encourage you to make your house feel like home.
But if we’re talking strictly about resale value, bright paint colors, unusual layouts, and highly specific design choices can make it harder for buyers to picture themselves living there.
And now for the hot take...
4. Pets.
I know. Nobody likes hearing this.
But I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a house where the homeowner has become completely nose-blind to pet odors, pet hair, scratched floors, damaged trim, or a difficult showing experience.
It doesn’t mean you can’t have pets.
It just means you need to prepare differently when it’s time to sell.
The good news?
Every one of these things is fixable.
Which one surprised you the most?
Brokered by Keller Williams Homewood
