According to a recent study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the majority of home sellers (61%) made at least minor repairs before putting their property on the market. However, life doesn’t always allow for renovations, and for some, tackling repairs just isn’t feasible. That could explain why 39% of sellers opted to sell their homes as-is instead (see chart below).
Feeling overwhelmed because you don’t have the time, budget, or resources to handle repairs or updates? Selling your house as-is might seem like an appealing option. Before you take that step, though, it’s important to understand what selling as-is really means.
What Does Selling As-Is Involve?
When you sell a home as-is, you’re telling buyers that you won’t make any repairs before closing and won’t negotiate fixes after their inspection. Essentially, you’re presenting the property exactly as it stands, with no guarantees or updates.
For sellers pressed for time or working with limited funds, this can provide peace of mind—fewer repairs mean less stress. However, selling as-is also comes with certain trade-offs. Take a look at the visual below to explore the pros and cons and determine if it’s the right move for you.
Should You Update Your Home Before Selling?
Homes that are move-in ready often sell for a higher price because buyers are willing to pay a premium for convenience. If you sell your house as-is, fewer buyers may be interested, which can lead to fewer offers, a longer time on the market, and ultimately a lower sale price. While skipping updates might be easier for you, it could come at the cost of your bottom line.
That said, selling as-is doesn’t mean your house won’t sell—it just might not fetch the same price it could in top condition.
The Good News: Many Buyers Are Open to Fixer-Uppers
In today’s housing market, as many as 56% of buyers are open to purchasing a home that needs some work. With affordability challenges and low inventory still shaping the market, many buyers are willing to take on renovation projects if it means finding a home within their budget.
How an Agent Can Help You Decide
Not sure if selling as-is is the right move for you? This is where a skilled real estate agent comes in.
An experienced agent will:
- Provide Market Insights: They’ll show you what similar homes in your area are selling for, highlight the types of updates others are making, and help you set a competitive price.
- Help You Anticipate Offers: Your agent can estimate your potential sale price with and without updates, giving you a clear picture of the trade-offs.
- Maximize Your Home’s Appeal: Whether you’re selling as-is or making updates, a good agent will market your property effectively, emphasizing its best features like location, size, or unique charm to attract the right buyers.
Bottom Line
Selling a home without repairs is a viable option, but it comes with pros and cons. To make the best choice for your situation, let’s connect and explore your options together.
