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

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

A recent study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reveals that 61% of sellers made at least minor repairs before selling their homes. However, life’s circumstances can sometimes make that difficult, which is likely why 39% of sellers opted to sell their homes as-is instead (see chart below):

If the idea of managing repairs or updates feels overwhelming due to limited time, budget, or resources, selling your house as-is might seem like the easiest option. However, before making this decision, here are some important factors to consider.

What Does Selling As-Is Really Mean?

Opting to sell as-is means you won’t handle repairs or negotiate fixes after the buyer’s inspection, signaling to buyers that the property comes as it stands. This can be a relief for sellers tight on time or budget, but it also comes with trade-offs. Here's a quick overview of the pros and cons to help you decide if selling as-is is the right choice for you.

Homes that are updated tend to sell for a higher price since buyers often value move-in-ready properties. Selling as-is might attract fewer buyers, which can result in fewer offers, a longer time on the market, and ultimately, a lower sale price. While this option can save you time and effort, it’s important to weigh the potential trade-offs against the benefits.

That doesn’t mean your house won’t sell – it just means it may not sell for as much as it would in top condition.

The good news is that 56% of buyers in today’s market are open to purchasing homes that need some work. With affordability challenges and a relatively low inventory of available homes, many buyers are willing to take on repairs or updates themselves, offering you potential opportunities even if your house isn’t move-in ready.

How an Agent Can Help

To make the best decision for your move, partnering with a professional is crucial.  

An experienced agent can help you evaluate your options by analyzing comparable sales in your area, identifying updates other sellers are making, and guiding you toward a fair and competitive price. This insight helps you understand what your house could sell for, whether you make updates or sell as-is, giving you the clarity needed to decide.  

Once you’ve chosen your path and set the asking price, your agent will market your home to highlight its strengths. If you opt to sell as-is, they’ll emphasize key features like the location, size, and potential, helping buyers focus on its opportunities rather than its challenges.

Bottom Line

Selling your home as-is is certainly an option in today’s market, but it comes with its own set of considerations. To ensure you're making the best decision for your situation, let’s connect and explore all your options together.