Land tends to appreciate while the building on it slowly wears out, which makes maintenance one of the least glamorous but most important parts of holding property well. The owners who protect their value over time treat it as a business cost, budgeted for in advance, rather than a problem to deal with later.
The jobs most often neglected are also the cheapest to stay on top of: roof and gutter checks, safety items such as smoke alarms and electrical compliance, servicing of heating and cooling, and periodic repainting and flooring. Setting aside a few thousand dollars a year for upkeep is far cheaper than the bill that arrives when small problems are left to compound.
Well-kept properties also attract and retain better tenants and present far more strongly at sale. Neglect is rarely free. It simply defers the cost to a moment when you have less control over it.
Richard Crabb contributed to this piece on the value-adding jobs owners most often overlook, in realestate.com.au’s Market Guide (print edition, 26 July 2025), written by Kate McIntyre.
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This article is general commentary by ASPIRE Property Advisor Network and references third-party media coverage. It does not constitute personal financial, taxation or legal advice and does not take into account your circumstances. You should seek independent professional advice before making any investment decision.