71% of Homeowners Are Delaying Repairs—Here’s Why That’s Risky in Oakland County, MI

Home Repairs

 

71% of Homeowners Are Delaying Repairs

Most Oakland County homeowners love the idea of a beautiful home upgrade—a chef’s kitchen in Novi, a spa-like bathroom in West Bloomfield, or maybe a gorgeous outdoor retreat in Northville. But let’s face it: even the most exciting home improvement projects are easy to delay when life gets busy (and expensive).

And if even the “fun” renovations are being put off, you can bet that the less glamorous stuff—like repairing small leaks, replacing aging HVAC systems, or dealing with roof issues—often gets ignored completely.

Why Oakland County Homeowners Are Delaying Projects

A recent Forbes report revealed that 71% of U.S. homeowners have delayed a home project in the past year, citing inflation, rising interest rates, and economic uncertainty. Here in Southeast Michigan—including cities like Farmington Hills, Commerce Township, and Troy—that trend is no different.

Many families are understandably cautious with their spending right now. But postponing critical home maintenance can be a costly mistake—especially if you plan to sell your home in Oakland County.

💡 Pro Tip: Homes in well-maintained condition tend to sell faster and for a higher price across Oakland County. Small problems often become deal-breakers during home inspections.

What Projects Are Being Delayed—and Why That Can Backfire

Sure, it’s more exciting to dream about quartz countertops or a new deck than to worry about foundation cracks or drainage issues. But foundational fixes are what keep your property safe, efficient, and appealing to future buyers.

Unlike trendy design upgrades, solid maintenance never goes out of style—and buyers in places like Royal Oak and Wixom notice the difference.

Here are some commonly delayed repairs that should be tackled sooner rather than later:

These issues not only lower your home’s long-term value—they often surface during a pre-listing inspection, leading to last-minute negotiations or deal-killing red flags.

A Smarter Way to Start Tackling Repairs

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. But you don’t need to fix everything all at once. A smart, phased approach can make home maintenance manageable—even on a tight budget.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Do a Complete Walkthrough

Take a fresh look at your home—inside and out. Walk around your basement, check the attic, inspect windows and siding. Look for things like:

  • Water spots or signs of leaks

  • Drafty doors or windows

  • Noisy HVAC systems

  • Sticking doors or sagging floors

2. Categorize Your To-Do List

Break it down into 3 categories:

  • Must-Do Now: Anything impacting safety, structural integrity, or major systems

  • Needs Attention Soon: Aging or semi-functional items that could fail within a year

  • Nice to Fix Later: Cosmetic changes or minor annoyances

3. Prioritize Based on Risk, Not Trend

A leaking pipe is more urgent than a dated backsplash. Focus first on what protects your home's structure and comfort.

4. Budget Smart

Even $50/month toward a “home maintenance fund” can help ease the sting of future repairs. You can also:

  • Watch for off-season contractor deals

  • Get professional inspections for HVAC and roofing

  • Break big projects into smaller, manageable phases

Local Support Is Just a Call Away

Don’t forget—your local real estate agent (👋 that’s me, Tom Gilliam!) is a great resource, even if you're not planning to move just yet. I work closely with reliable local contractors throughout Oakland County and know what buyers are looking for in places like Novi, Northville, and Troy.

Need help prioritizing which repairs add the most value? I’m happy to offer guidance with an eye toward resale value and long-term comfort.

The Bottom Line for Oakland County Homeowners

We get it—costs are up, and home projects feel more daunting than ever. But delaying critical repairs can end up costing more down the line, especially when it’s time to sell your Oakland County home.

Start small, stay consistent, and don’t hesitate to lean on local pros for support. You’ll save yourself time, money, and major headaches—while protecting the value of one of your most important investments: your home.

Next Steps:

✔ Need help connecting with trusted contractors in Oakland County?
✔ Want a free home valuation to see how your updates could boost resale value?

📞 Contact your local real estate expert, Tom Gilliam, with RE/MAX Classic
📍 Serving Farmington Hills, Novi, Northville, Commerce, Troy & beyond
🔗 https://homes2moveyou.com
📲 248-790-5594