If you're getting ready to sell your home, one of the biggest questions you'll face is: Should I sell my home as-is or make repairs first? It's a decision that can affect how quickly your home sells, how much you earn from the sale, and how much stress you deal with during the process.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your property, the local market, your budget, and your goals. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of selling a home as-is vs. making repairs, so you can make the best decision for your situation.

What Does Selling a Home As-Is Mean?

Selling a home as-is means you’re putting the property on the market in its current condition—without making any repairs or improvements. You’re essentially telling buyers, “What you see is what you get.”

This doesn’t mean you can hide known problems. Legally, you’ll still need to disclose any material defects, but you’re not obligated to fix them before selling.

Pros of Selling As-Is

1. Faster Sale

Selling as-is can speed up the selling process, especially if you're on a tight timeline due to relocation, financial needs, or other life changes.

2. Lower Upfront Costs

If you don't have the time or money to invest in repairs, listing your home as-is can save you thousands on updates, inspections, and renovations.

3. Less Stress

Home improvement projects can be overwhelming. Selling as-is lets you skip the hassle of coordinating contractors, materials, and timelines.

4. Ideal for Investor Buyers

As-is homes often appeal to real estate investors, flippers, or cash buyers who are looking for properties to renovate.

Cons of Selling As-Is

1. Lower Sale Price

Because buyers expect to spend money on repairs, they’ll likely offer less than they would for a move-in-ready home.

2. Smaller Buyer Pool

Some buyers may be wary of homes sold as-is, fearing costly repairs or hidden issues. This can limit interest and increase days on market.

3. Buyers May Still Negotiate

Even when buying as-is, many buyers will still request inspections and try to negotiate based on the results.

Pros of Making Repairs Before Selling

1. Higher Market Value

Making key repairs—especially to the kitchen, bathrooms, roof, or HVAC—can increase your home’s value and justify a higher asking price.

2. More Buyer Interest

Homes in good condition tend to attract a wider pool of buyers, including those using traditional financing.

3. Smoother Transactions

By addressing problems ahead of time, you reduce the chances of delays or failed deals due to inspection issues.

Cons of Making Repairs Before Selling

1. Upfront Costs

Even minor repairs can add up quickly. You’ll need to budget for labor, materials, and time.

2. Delayed Listing

Making repairs means delaying your listing date, which might not be ideal if you need to sell quickly.

3. Risk of Over-improving

Spending too much on renovations that don’t offer a solid return can cut into your profits. Not all upgrades increase home value.

So, What Should You Do?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

• What’s the current condition of my home?

• Do I have the time and budget for repairs?

• How quickly do I need to sell?

• What’s the market like in my area?

  • In a seller’s market, homes—even as-is—can sell fast and for top dollar.

  • In a buyer’s market, repairs may be necessary to stay competitive.

Pro Tip: Consult a Local Real Estate Agent

The best way to decide whether to sell as-is or make repairs is to consult a local real estate expert. They can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA), help you estimate repair ROI, and guide you based on current trends in your neighborhood.

Selling your home as-is can be a great option if you're looking for a quick, hassle-free sale, especially if your home needs major repairs. On the other hand, making key updates could help you maximize your profit and attract more buyers.

Whatever you choose, understanding the pros and cons of each path can help you sell with confidence and peace of mind.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in Andover MA.

Any questions about real estate, reach out to Matt Witte Andover Realtor MA