The best way to prepare your home for sale is to make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. This involves fixing broken things and possibly making some improvements.
The question is, how do you decide whether to repair and improve something versus just leaving it alone?
Say, for example, the deck railing on your property are looking scratched up and moldy, something that's very common in homes in West Vancouver due to the humidity and rainy weather. You could sand down the wood and give it a fresh coat of paint or stain it, or upgrade it altogether by installing new glass railings for a modern look. That would make a big difference in the way prospective buyers view your property. As an alternative, you can decide not to do that project in the hopes that your home will still look good regardless. 
Ask yourself these questions before making a decision:
- How much will the fix or improvement cost?
- How big of an impact will it have on my property's appearance?
- Will the fix or improvement help increase my property's value?
As you begin to answer these questions, you will have a better idea of how to move forward. This will also help you identify which projects are worth pursuing and which ones are better left untouched. As a side note, painting is almost always a smart move when preparing it for sale, since low cost and effective.
If you're thinking about listing your home for sale, take some time to explore what's currently on the market. Kim's North Vancouver and West Vancouver area maps are a great tool to get a better understanding of what each neighbourhood is currently offering.
Preparing your home for sale in a competitive market like Vancouver doesn't need to be overwhelming. If you're seeking expert advice, you might consider consulting with a local real estate expert like Kim Taylor, a seasoned West Vancouver Realtor. She can offer insights and guidance tailored to your unique situation, helping you navigate this important decision. Reach out today for a Complimentary Home Evaluation and to gain deeper insights into the local Vancouver real estate market.