Should You Sell Your Home As-Is or Make Repairs First?

When it’s time to sell, many homeowners face the big question: should you list your property as-is or invest time and money into making repairs? The answer depends on your goals, timeline, and the current market.

1. Selling As-Is

When you sell a home as-is, you’re telling buyers that what they see is what they get. You won’t be making repairs or updates before closing.

• Pros: Saves time, reduces upfront costs, appeals to investors and flippers.

• Cons: May attract lower offers, fewer traditional buyers, and longer time on market in some cases.

2. Making Repairs First

Handling repairs before listing can make your home more attractive to buyers and increase its value. Even small improvements—like fresh paint, fixing leaks, or updating fixtures—can make a big difference.

• Pros: Potentially higher selling price, faster sale, broader pool of buyers.

• Cons: Requires upfront investment and more time before listing.

3. Market Conditions Matter

In a seller’s market with low inventory, you may be able to sell as-is quickly. In a buyer’s market, however, making repairs could help you stand out from the competition.

4. Consider Your Buyer Pool

If your likely buyers are investors, selling as-is may work just fine. But if your target is first-time homebuyers, they may prefer a move-in-ready property.

5. The Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you want speed and less hassle, selling as-is may be best. If your goal is to maximize profit, investing in key repairs could pay off. A trusted realtor can help you assess your specific home, budget, and market conditions to make the right call.