Should You Sell Your Home As Is? A First-Time Seller's Guide

1 July 2025

Selling a home is a big decision, but selling it "as is" can raise even more questions. If you're a first-time seller, you may be wondering: Will I still get a good price? Do buyers even consider homes sold "as is"? Is this the right move financially?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many homeowners face this dilemma, and in this guide, we’ll break it all down for you. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of whether selling your home "as is" is the right choice for you.

What Does "Selling a Home As Is" Really Mean?

Selling a home "as is" means you're putting it on the market in its current condition—flaws and all—without making any repairs or renovations. Buyers are fully aware that what they see is what they get.

That doesn't mean you can hide major issues, though. You’ll still need to disclose known problems, like a leaky roof or outdated plumbing. But, unlike a traditional sale, you won’t be fixing anything before closing the deal.

Why Would Someone Sell Their Home As Is?

You might be thinking, "Why would I sell my home this way?" Well, there are a few solid reasons:

1. You Need to Sell Quickly

If you're in a hurry—whether due to a job relocation, financial struggles, or personal reasons—selling as is can cut down the time it takes to close.

2. You Can't Afford Repairs

Home renovations can be expensive. If you don’t have the cash or don't want to take on the hassle, selling as is might be your best bet.

3. You Inherited a Property

Sometimes, people inherit homes they don’t want to keep. If the home needs too much work, selling it as is can save time and effort.

4. You Don't Want the Stress

Let’s face it—home repairs, contractor headaches, and endless negotiations can be overwhelming. Selling as is removes a lot of the hassle.

The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home As Is

Like any big decision, there are upsides and downsides. Let’s break them down:

Pros:

✅ Faster Sale – No need to wait for repairs to be completed.
✅ Less Upfront Expense – No paying for costly renovations or upgrades.
✅ Attracts Investors & Cash Buyers – Many investors look for fixer-uppers.
✅ Fewer Negotiations – Buyers know what they’re getting into.

Cons:

❌ Lower Selling Price – Buyers often expect a discount for “as is” homes.
❌ Limited Buyer Pool – Not everyone is willing to take on a project.
❌ Perception of Problems – Many buyers assume the worst about an as-is property.
❌ Possible Financing Issues – Some lenders hesitate to approve loans for homes in poor condition.

How Much Less Will You Make Selling As Is?

Here’s the golden question: Will selling your home as is cost you a fortune?

Well, it depends. If your home only needs minor cosmetic fixes, you may not lose much. However, if it has major structural problems, buyers will expect a significant discount.

On average, homes sold as is tend to fetch anywhere from 10% to 30% less than those with repairs. The exact amount depends on your local real estate market, the condition of your home, and the level of demand.

How to Sell Your Home As Is (And Still Get a Good Deal)

If you’ve decided to go this route, you still want to get the best possible price. Here’s how to do it:

1. Price It Right

Overpricing an as-is home is a surefire way to scare off buyers. Work with a real estate agent to set a fair price based on comparable sales in your area.

2. Be Honest & Transparent

Full disclosure is key. If your home has issues, let buyers know upfront. Transparency builds trust, and in many states, it's legally required.

3. Take Good Photos

Just because your home isn't perfect doesn’t mean it shouldn't look appealing. Stage it well, clean up clutter, and get high-quality photos taken.

4. Target the Right Buyers

Your ideal buyers are likely investors, house flippers, or DIY enthusiasts who love a project. A good listing description can make sure your home lands in front of the right audience.

5. Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection

A home inspection before listing might sound counterintuitive, but it can actually help. It lets buyers see exactly what they’re getting into and prevents last-minute surprises.

6. Be Open to Negotiation

Even though you're selling as is, buyers may still try to negotiate the price or request inspections. Be flexible, but set clear expectations.

Alternative Options: Should You Fix Up Your Home Before Selling?

If you're still on the fence, let’s consider the alternative—making repairs before selling.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

- Do I have the budget for repairs?
- Will fixing up the home significantly increase its value?
- Is the current market favoring move-in-ready homes?
- Do I have the time and patience for renovations?

If your home only needs minor improvements, investing in small fixes like fresh paint, new carpet, or updated lighting could boost your sale price. But if your home needs major work, selling as is might still be the best option.

Who Buys Homes As Is?

You might be wondering—who actually buys homes in as-is condition? The good news is, there are plenty of interested buyers, including:

🏡 Investors & House Flippers – They buy distressed properties, fix them up, and sell for a profit.
🏡 First-Time Buyers on a Budget – Some buyers are willing to tackle repairs in exchange for a lower price.
🏡 Cash Buyers – Without the need for financing, they can close quickly and handle the necessary repairs themselves.

Final Verdict: Should You Sell Your Home As Is?

So, is selling your home as is the right move for you?

✅ Yes, if:
- You need to sell quickly.
- You can't afford repairs.
- You prefer a hassle-free process.

❌ No, if:
- Making small fixes could significantly increase your profit.
- You have the time and budget to improve the home’s condition.
- Your home’s condition is hurting its marketability.

At the end of the day, it all boils down to your priorities—speed versus profit. If you value convenience and want to move on quickly, selling as is could be the perfect solution!

Final Thoughts

Selling a home as is can be a stress-free way to sell without the headache of repairs. But it’s important to set realistic expectations. You might sell for less, but if you price your home right, disclose any issues, and market to the right buyers, you can still walk away with a fair deal.

So, what’s your next move? Whether you choose to sell as is or make some improvements first, the key is to do what’s best for your situation.