Priorities for Making Repairs

It is difficult to set down a hard set of rules on how to prioritize items for repairs.  Each home and situation is different.  You need to consider your skill set, the age of the new occupants, any mobility issues and the age of the home and it's systems.  Additionally, you need to consider your negotiating position.  A seller that thinks that he "took a bath" may not want to negotiate what he considers minor repairs.  With this type of seller you need to separate your "must have" issues from your "would like to have" issues.  This is where a good agent earns his or her money. 

As a general rule the following basic list applies:

Priority 1: Safety

Repair any item that can be construed as harmful if not fixed.  This will vary based on the number of children and the occupants habits.  Good examples include GFCI repair or the replacement of a copper gas line.

Priority 2: Structure

Repair any item, which causes a weakening of the structure or opens the structure up to environmental damage.  Rotted wood, plumbing leaks or ineffective flashing.

Priority 3.  Mechanicals

Repair any major appliance, AC or heat, which is not functional. 

Priority 4.  Touch up

Items if left unattended will degrade.  Caulk repair around windows, grout between tiles etc. 

Priority 5.  Cosmetic issues

Interior paint and flooring should be addressed.