2021 Appliance Repair Versus Replacement and How Much It’ll Cost

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When preparing a home to sell, the to-do list can seem never-ending. From applying a fresh coat of paint to updating light fixtures or installing new flooring, you will most likely invest money along the way. You can only hope to get it back in the sales price.

However, whether we’re talking about your trusty old appliance in your decades-old home, or a suspect looking fridge you saw inside of a brand new listing, you may be wondering whether that machine needs replacing. How do you know for sure?

Read on to learn when it’s time to replace common household appliances.

Common Refrigerator Repairs

fridge

It’s always best to see the warning signs of a faulty refrigerator before it’s too late, especially when the fridge is full of food.

If food is spoiling before the expiration date, that could be a sign that it is struggling to stay cool. Condensation on the inside of the refrigerator could also be a sign of cooling problems. However, condensation alone does not mean the fridge is broken! Condensation gathering on the outside of the fridge near the door openings is often a sign your fridge only requires a new door seal.

If your refrigerator is noisier than usual (or if the back of the fridge feels significantly warmer than normal), these can be signs of a malfunctioning motor. Refrigerator motor repairs can often be costly, though, so if the appliance is older than 10 years, it’s probably better to replace than repair. 

How much does it cost to replace a fridge?

In general, if maintenance costs or utility bills are on the rise, replacement may be the right choice. According to Home Advisor, the price has quite a range. From a barebones box to a fridge from the future, you can expect to spend between $900-$8,000 for a new refrigerator, depending on the style and features you choose. New refrigerators should last between 6-15 years.

Common Dishwasher Repairs

dishwasher

When buyers consider purchasing a new home, they may wonder about the condition and quality of the dishwasher. A quick inspection may show some clear wear and tear, but it may not always be easy to detect every issue.

Obvious signs that a dishwasher should be outright replaced include a broken door latch, which could render the appliance inoperable, or a cracked body shell, which could cause leakage. 

There are issues that are more challenging to find without running a cycle.

If the washer doesn’t drain, it could be a sign of a broken drain. Not only does this hinder the wash cycle, but it could also lead to leakage underneath the unit. In fact, rust under the dishwasher is a clear sign that the dishwasher should be replaced. It can be difficult to find, but can be detected if rust starts to flake off under the appliance.

If water is not getting hot enough to wash the dishes, there is likely an issue with the coil, and it’s likely wise to consider replacement in this case, especially if it is an older model.

How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher?

According to Home Advisor, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400-$700 at the store. New dishwashers should last between 8-10 years, with normal use.

Common Oven Repairs

Oven

The very first thing you need to do with ovens is to inspect it for any signs of rust. If rust is found on the inside of the oven, it’s likely time to upgrade to a newer model.

Oven not heating properly? There could be a number of reasons for this, including cracked glass on the door, but if the oven is several years old already, the cost to repair may not be worth it. 

The average lifespan of an oven is around 10-15 years. Retro is great for setting a vibe, however in terms of selling a home, some fully functioning appliances from a decade ago may no longer meet your needs or the needs of potential home buyers. Electric coil cooktops, for instance, may work great, but they could also turn off buyers looking for glass top options. Others may want newer features, like convection or rapid boil burners.

How much does it cost to replace an oven?

Expect to pay anywhere from $650-$2,000 for a new oven, depending on the features and styles you need.

Common Garbage Disposal Repairs

Homeowners often forget about the importance of garbage disposals until a problem arises. It can be challenging to know whether to repair or replace the disposal, though. An occasional loud noise or clog, for example, may not be cause for concern!

If you experience frequent garbage disposal clogs and leaks, however, it could be a sign that the motor is dying, or that your family’s cleaning needs and habits may require a higher capacity model. (I suggest throwing your regular compost away for a few weeks to see if the problem persists.) Leaks underneath the sink can also be a sign that the disposal needs replacement. If you experience either of these issues, it is wise to call an experienced technician to repair or replace your garbage disposal.

How much does it cost to replace a garbage disposal?

You can expect the average garbage disposal to last 8-15 years with normal use, and new disposals typically cost $85-$200, plus the cost of installation

Common Washing Machine Repairs

washing machine

It’s best not to wait until there’s a flood in the laundry room to consider replacing your washing machine. Some water leakage from your washer may not be a reason to replace it, but rather a sign that the hoses have come loose over time.

However, if the hoses are installed correctly, and in good condition, and leakage still occurs, you may want to consider a new washing machine. It’s common for a washing machine to occasionally become imbalanced, causing loud noises and even movement. Often, the cause for this could simply be a large item, like a comforter, that has moved to one side. If your washer frequently moves regardless of what is in it though, it could be a sign of a larger issue and may need to be replaced. 

Like ovens, washing machines have seen many updates in recent years. Though a typical machine could last anywhere from 8-12 years, certain features, like a front loader, could attract more buyers. However, if unnecessary replacement isn’t in your budget, just be sure to give the machine a good cleaning, remove visible lint and debris, and repair any minor issues before putting your home on the market.

How much does it cost to replace a washing machine?

A new machine will run anywhere from $350-$1,000, according to Home Advisor, it’s important to know what signs to look for to know when the appliance should truly be replaced.

Common Dryer Repairs

Many dryer issues can be fixed with the help of an appliance professional. If the drum won’t turn or you hear unexplained banging or popping noises while the dryer is on, the cause is likely a faulty belt. A dryer that won’t start could be caused by a broken door sensor or lock, which can be an easy fix. However, if the dryer isn’t heating properly, or if it is turning off mid-cycle, you may want to consider purchasing a new dryer.

But if the dryer is getting way too hot or has a burning smell – and the lint cleaner isn’t to blame – this is a surefire “replace” situation.

The average lifespan of a well-maintained dryer is 8-12 years, so while many of these issues are easy to fix, it may make sense to simply replace older models, which could continue to have issues over time. Some homeowners also decide to replace their dryer when purchasing a new washer, so the two appliances match.

How much does it cost to replace a dryer?

New dryers can cost between $400-$1,000, depending on features and style

Always get a free repair quote to compare against replacement costs

Make sure to always fetch a free appliance repair quote before you go put a deposit down on a brand new machine!

Ultimately deciding whether to repair or replace an appliance can be a challenging task. First, consider the age of the appliance, as well as its average life span. A 12-year-old refrigerator, for instance, may not justify a costly motor repair, while the same aged dryer would need to be replaced over a faulty door sensor. Keep in mind that even if your old one is working, newer machines of any kind will likely save on electricity and/or water costs.

Plus, if you plan to place your home on the market in the near future, you may also want to consider the new features buyers look for. (For instance, a top-loading washer in fair condition may not add as much value to the home as a newer front load machine.)

If you decide to replace, just be sure to do your research and select an appliance that will last!


Alan Smith is the Marketing Coordinator of Spartan Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. Spartan is a leading plumbing /HVAC company that assists all types of businesses and residences throughout the Washington D.C. region and parts of Maryland. Spartan has an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau and was voted Best Plumber in D.C. for four years in a row.

How to Sell a House: A Guide from A to Z

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If you’ve ever sold something on Craigslist, you probably know how much work even just that can be involved. You’ve gotta take photos of the item, figure out a good price, and then post it online with a descriptive caption and details about the piece. Afterward, you’ve gotta field the emails and calls, then wait for a random stranger to come pick up your item.

Now, take that process and multiply it by 100 … that’s what it’s like to sell a house!

We’re not gonna sugar coat it; there is a lot of work and serious effort involved in selling a home. That’s why we wrote this post to outline the entire process for you. Understanding what you’ll be doing is the first step towards slapping “SOLD” on the sign in your front yard.

Craft a Selling Gameplan

Once you decide to sell your house, you probably would like if it all happened pretty quickly. But nothing good happens without a plan. So the first order of business is to make a selling gameplan. This is what that looks like.

Agent or No Agent?

The first major step in the selling process is figuring out if you’re going to hire a professional real estate agent or sell your home yourself. If you go the “For Sale By Owner” route, you could, in theory, save some money. But if you’re new to the home selling process, you may be way over your head if you DIY it. Ask yourself if you have the time, knowledge and marketing skills to sell your house all by yourself. If you come away with a resounding yes, it could be the right move for you!

Though if you decide to go with an agent, take the time upfront to find a good one. Ask friends for referrals, read reviews online and interview more than one agent before you hire the winner. A good agent should educate you throughout the process, and it ultimately should be someone you deeply trust.

This post outlines tips on who to contact, when, and how to do it.

Choosing the Right Time

The best time to sell is March through June. That leaves parents an entire summer to get their kids adjusted and ready for the new school year. So if you can wait until the spring and early summer months, do it! It’s always best to avoid selling during winter and the holidays, as most people aren’t looking to buy homes during that busy time of year on average.

Find the Right Price

The first 30 days of activity are crucial when it comes to selling your house, so price matters. You may assume that you should start high and then lower your price if you don’t get any attention, but if it sits on the market for too long, your listing can become stale. Buyers may stay away if you price too high or assume that you’re not serious about selling. Price it right from the start and you’ll probably sell your home much faster.

If you’re using an agent, they will work with you to figure out the best price for your home. You can also research other comparable homes in your area, and maybe even attend some open houses. Plus, there are many online resources that will help you track down the perfect number for your area. These things will all get you a good feel for the market and how your home compares.

Prep Your Home

Painting the House

Before you can officially get your home on the market, you need to get it looking it’s very best. If you fail to make your home look presentable, then you may not get the asking price you’re looking for, or even worse … it could sit on the market for far too long. You need to showcase your home in its best light, and the only way to do that is with some hard work and effort. Here’s how to prep your home for the market:

De-Clutter and De-Personalize In Six Steps

This first task will cost you literally zero dollars. Yep, you can already make your home look 10 times better without spending a dime. Here’s how.

  • Find a spot where you can store items out of sight. That could be an attic space, shed, or even a storage unit that you rent while you’re selling.
  • Remove excess bulky furniture. The more space to walk around, the better.
  • Try to pare down at least 10% in each room. Gather extra accessories and items that are taking up space.
  • Permanently clear all counters in your kitchen. And try to get rid of most items on surfaces (i.e., desks, dressers, etc.).
  • Donate everything you clear. (Or add them to your designated storage spot.)
  • Remove any personal items from around your home. This means things like picture frames and family knickknacks.

These six steps will have your home looking so much more sellable. Your space will be lighter and brighter for the photography and showings later on! Don’t forget about closets and drawers too. Buyers are nosy, and they’ll be checking out every nook and cranny in your house.

Make Small Home Upgrades

You don’t necessarily need to renovate your kitchen or bathroom to sell your house, but there are small upgrades you can make to improve your home. Here are some ideas that will instantly improve the look of your space (and potential home value!).

  • Give your walls a fresh coat of paint. Be sure to consult this list of paint colors with the best resale value first!
  • Upgrade your kitchen on a dime. Swap cabinet hardware, replace your faucet, and add new pendants for a quick and budget-friendly new look!
  • Boost curb appeal with a painted door. This post will help you pick the perfect hue. (Also helpful is a cleaned up yard and fresh flowers.)

Finally, if something has been broken (and on your to-do list for years), now is obviously the time to fix it!

Clean From Top to Bottom

There’s another essential (but free) task you’re going to be doing to make your home look a lot better: cleaning everything! Grime and dust can quickly deter buyers from truly considering your home, so get every nook and cranny sparkling. These posts will help you channel your inner Mr. Clean.

Marketing Your Home

If you’ve gotten to this step, your home is in tip-top shape from all of your hard work and it’s ready for its debut to the world! Marketing your home is by far the most important step of the home selling process. You can have the most gorgeous house on the block, but if no one sees the listing it’s never going to sell.

Stage and Photograph Your Space

You’ve already prepped for the staging when you got rid of personal items and removed clutter. Good work, that’s 90% of the battle. Now it’s time to add the finishing touches before your home’s photo shoot.

Make sure every room is clean, all beds are made, and blinds are open to let that natural light in! (Natural light is ideal for photos.) It’s important to keep accessories to a minimum, but if you do want to add a few we suggest opting for plants and flowers. This post has lots of tips on how to do it right.

Pictures are the most important part of a home listing, so it’s crucial to get these right. If you don’t think you can DIY it, then hire a pro! Investing in a professional photographer could potentially be the biggest money spent to money gained ratio in the entire process. If you’re using an agent, often times they will pay for this service. A professional is always a good idea because they will know how to photograph your home to make it look its best.

If you’re selling your house yourself (or just want to save some money), it’s possible to take your own pics. We suggest using a wide-angle lens, shooting during the daytime, and using a tripod. For more DIY photography tips, check out this post.

Promote Your Sale

Don’t solely rely on your agent to promote your listing. You can take some of the marketing efforts into your own hands and broadcast your sale to the world! Put your listing on social media sites, email your friends and family, and let neighbors know that you’re selling. You never know who might be looking to buy, so it’s worth it to use your own network to get the word out. Here are some of the most common sites people use for listing and/or real estate research:

Bring on the Showings

Simply put, homes that don’t get shown don’t get sold. So the first order of business is to make your home available for showings. That could mean a few open houses on the weekends and availability during the week. We highly recommend that you leave the house during showings so buyers can really feel comfortable checking out your space. It may be an inconvenience for you and your family, but remember that it’s only temporary!

You’ll also want to do these 10 things before any open house to get your home looking (and smelling) its best!

Keep It Clean

It’s hard to live in your home like a normal person and keep it ready for showings at all times. But you’ve gotta do your best to keep your home clean and organized. Whenever you leave the house, tidy up and wipe down all of your countertops. That way if you need to have a last-minute showing, your home is ready to go.

Get Everyone Out of the House

It’s important for buyers to check out an empty house. So that means that you, your kids, and any animals should make a plan to high-tail it out of there. That could mean taking the dog for a long walk or heading over to a friend’s house for the day. But no matter what, come up with a plan for where your family will go when those last-minute showings happen. And if you do have pets, be sure to remove their items (e.g., dog bowls, cat litter, etc.) from the home before buyers come in.

How To Get Ready For Closing

If you’ve made it this far, then congrats! You’re almost to the finish line. Here’s what happens now:

Appraisal and Inspection Time

After the listings and showings, you will (hopefully!) get an offer on your place. After you’ve accepted an offer, most buyers will do an inspection of your place within a week. You won’t need to be there for the inspection, and you’ll usually have the results within a few days. At that time, you’ll know if all went well, if you need to fix a few items yourself, or if you’ll offer the buyers a credit to fix things themselves.

Here’s our full guide for how to deal with a home inspection.

Next, it’s time for the appraisal. Appraisals usually happen within a week of the home inspection. You can do some homework before the appraisal to improve the chances of getting a higher price. Provide a list of recent home improvements and receipts to explain the value you’ve added to your home.

The results of the appraisal may take a few weeks. If your home appraises, you’re good to go! If not, you’ll have to negotiate with the buyer to find a price that works for all parties.

Prep to Move

After the appraisal, you’ll be on track for closing day. You can finally start to pack things up and get ready to move out of your home. This would be a good time to think about hiring some help for moving day. It’s also time to start packing! This handy checklist will keep you on task so you stay organized and on top of your move.

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Saying Goodbye to Your Home

Congrats, you sold your house! All that’s left to do is say goodbye and toast to all of the memories made in your place. As a bonus, you can also leave your buyers a little gift as you head out (like a booklet of your favorite restaurants or just a note with tips on their new house). It’s a great way to hand off your past experiences to the new homeowners. Onward!

When You Have to Move Quickly (and You Aren’t in Witness Protection): How to Sell Your Home Fast

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Layoffs, RIFs, transfers, family illness or just getting the heck out of Dodge sometimes make it necessary to sell your home quickly. You bought it for an investment, but it could easily become an albatross if it stays on the market very long. Here are some tips for selling your home quickly. (more…)

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