Deferred Maintenance: The Silent Value Killer in Your Home
Let’s talk about something that’s easy to ignore—until it isn’t. Deferred home maintenance. You know, that leaky faucet you’ve been meaning to fix, the moss creeping across the roof, or the furnace filter you haven’t changed since… well, you’re not sure when.
In this episode of Real Life and Real Estate, I’m diving into why putting off small repairs can lead to big problems—and how staying proactive protects your home’s value, safety, and marketability.
🧱 What Is Deferred Maintenance?
Deferred maintenance is just a fancy way of saying “stuff we’ve been putting off.” And listen, I get it—life is busy, budgets are tight, and sometimes that squeaky door or cracked caulk line doesn’t feel urgent. But over time, these little things add up.
Here’s what I see as a real estate agent in Pierce County (especially in Puyallup, Tacoma, and surrounding areas):
Buyers notice neglected maintenance—and they assume bigger problems are hiding.
Inspectors flag deferred items, which can derail negotiations.
Sellers lose leverage (and sometimes thousands of dollars) over things that could’ve been handled for a fraction of the cost.
🛠️ Common Deferred Maintenance Issues
Roof moss and gutter buildup
Peeling paint or cracked siding
Worn-out carpet or damaged flooring
Old water heaters or HVAC systems
Leaky faucets, toilets, or slow drains
Overgrown landscaping or poor drainage
These aren’t just cosmetic—they can lead to water damage, pest issues, and safety hazards if left unchecked.
💡 Why It Matters (Even If You’re Not Selling Yet)
Even if you’re not planning to move anytime soon, staying on top of maintenance:
Protects your investment
Reduces emergency repair costs
Makes future selling easier and more profitable
Improves your day-to-day comfort and safety
Think of it as homeownership self-care.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
In this episode, I share real-life examples, quick wins, and how to start small if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re prepping to sell or just want to feel more in control of your space, this one’s for you.
🎙️ Listen to Episode 5: Deferred Maintenance
Your home doesn’t need to be perfect—but it does need your attention. Subscribe to Real Life and Real Estate for more tips, tools, and stories that help you love (and protect) where you live.
