Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs?

What Does it Mean to Sell a House As-Is?

Selling a house as-is means listing the property in its current condition without making repairs, renovations, or improvements to address any issues. When selling as-is, the seller is essentially stating, “What you see is what you get.” The buyer agrees to purchase the property knowing that it might need repairs or updates, and they typically take on the responsibility for those costs after closing.

A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows most sellers (61%) completed at least minor repairs when selling their house. But sometimes life gets in the way and that’s just not possible. Maybe that’s why 39% of sellers chose to sell as-is:

Selling a house as-is can be a great strategy for sellers who do not want to deal with the hassle involved in making repairs. There are some trade-offs to consider, however, as illustrated below:

When Does Selling As-Is Make Sense?

• Time Constraints: If you need to sell quickly due to relocation, financial reasons, or other time-sensitive situations.
• Limited Resources: If you cannot afford or do not want to invest in repairs or updates.
• Investor Appeal: Homes with significant repair needs often attract cash buyers or investors who see potential for flipping or renting the property.

How Buyers View As-Is Properties

Many traditional buyers prefer move-in-ready homes, while investors and experienced buyers may find as-is properties attractive due to potential value. By pricing the home competitively and marketing it effectively, you can still achieve a successful sale even when selling as-is.

How an Agent Can Help

A good agent will help you weigh your options by showing you what comparable homes in your area have sold for, what updates your neighbors are making, and guide you in setting a fair price no matter what you decide. That helps you anticipate what your house may sell for either way – and that can be a key factor in your final decision.

Once you’ve picked which route you’re going to go and the asking price is set, your agent will market your house to maximize its appeal. And if you decide to sell as-is, they’ll call attention to the best features, like the location, size, and more, so it’s easy for buyers to see the potential, not just projects.

Bottom Line: Selling a home without making any repairs is possible in today’s market, but it does have some trade-offs. To make sure you’re considering all your options and making the best choice possible, reach out and let’s have a conversation.