What to Fix Before Selling a Home in Nashville, TN

What should you fix before selling a home in Nashville, TN?
To sell your home successfully in Nashville, TN, focus on fixing cosmetic issues, repairing any functional problems, and updating key areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Small investments in repairs can significantly boost your home’s value and appeal.

Why Fixing Things Before Listing Matters

Before placing your home on the Nashville real estate market, you’ll want to ensure it’s in top condition. Nashville buyers are savvy—and with a competitive market, you want your home to stand out in the best way. Fixing key issues up front can:

• Help your home sell faster

• Reduce buyer negotiation leverage

• Increase your final sale price

• Prevent delays during inspection or appraisal

As a local expert, Nik Shewmaker (aka "Nashville's Nik") has helped dozens of sellers prep their homes smartly and cost-effectively. Let’s walk through what to prioritize.

Top Repairs to Make Before Selling Your Nashville Home

1. Paint Walls in Neutral Colors

Buyers want a fresh canvas. Repainting in neutral tones like soft gray, greige, or classic white makes spaces look clean, open, and move-in ready.

Nashville Tip: Popular styles in areas like East Nashville, Sylvan Park, and Green Hills often feature warm whites and soft earthy tones.

2. Fix Flooring Flaws

• Replace worn carpet

• Refinish scratched hardwoods

• Repair cracked tiles

In a city like Nashville, where hardwood floors are often a must-have, updating your flooring makes a huge impact.

3. Repair Leaks & Water Damage

Water stains or leaky faucets are major red flags to buyers. Fix any plumbing issues and repaint stained areas. Also, check your crawlspace and attic—especially with Tennessee’s humid climate.

4. Update the Kitchen and Bathrooms (within reason)

You don’t need a full remodel—but fresh cabinet paint, new hardware, a modern light fixture, or updated faucets go a long way.

Local Insight: In neighborhoods like The Nations or 12 South, buyers expect some modern flair but love homes with character too.

5. Improve Lighting

Swap outdated fixtures for clean, modern designs. Add bulbs with a warm daylight tone for a welcoming feel. Proper lighting makes rooms look bigger and brighter.

6. Fix Doors, Windows & Hardware

• Make sure doors close properly

• Replace broken locks or knobs

• Ensure windows open smoothly and lock securely

These are simple fixes that suggest a well-maintained home.

Should You Tackle Major Repairs?

That depends. If your HVAC, roof, or foundation has major issues, it could scare off buyers or lead to failed inspections. In these cases:

• Get estimates before listing

• Decide whether to repair or disclose with pricing in mind

• Consult with your agent for a strategic approach

Nik Shewmaker helps sellers navigate these tough decisions with market data and contractor referrals.

What NOT to Worry About

• Fully remodeling your kitchen or bath: Often unnecessary unless they’re severely outdated

• Customizing spaces: Unique colors or finishes might not appeal to most buyers

• Landscaping overkill: Keep it tidy, but no need to install a koi pond

Final Checklist Before Listing

Here’s a simplified punch list to tackle before hitting the Nashville MLS:

Partner With a Trusted Local Pro

Every home—and every market—is different. What’s right for a Germantown loft might not be needed for a Donelson ranch. That’s where a local expert like Nik Shewmaker, Nashville’s Nik, comes in.

Nik brings deep knowledge of Nashville neighborhoods, buyer expectations, and pricing strategies. She’ll help you make smart fixes that align with your timeline and goals—without overspending on unnecessary upgrades.

Ready to Sell Your Home in Nashville?

Let’s get your home market-ready and SOLD. Contact Nik Shewmaker, Nashville’s Nik, for a walkthrough consultation. We’ll highlight what to fix, what to skip, and how to list with confidence.

Nik Shewmaker (NashvillesNik)

615-585-0022

Nashvillesnik@gmail.com

Nashvillesnik.com