Skip the Repairs: How to Sell Your Home As-Is and Still Get Results

Selling your home doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune on renovations. In fact, many homeowners are successfully listing their properties without investing in costly upgrades. With the right approach, it’s entirely possible to sell your home in its current condition while still attracting serious buyers and achieving a solid result.

One of the best strategies to avoid unnecessary expenses is selling your home “as-is.” This simply means you’re putting the property on the market in its current state, without committing to repairs or improvements before settlement. Buyers are made aware that what they see is what they get. While it might sound like a risk, it can actually attract the right type of buyer—someone who sees potential and isn’t afraid of doing a bit of work.

According to HomeLight, sellers often opt for an as-is sale to save time and money, especially when facing financial constraints, life changes, or inherited properties. It’s also common among homeowners trying to avoid foreclosure or needing to relocate quickly—such as military families facing a permanent change of station.

Transparency is critical when selling a house as-is. Make sure you disclose any known issues, such as outdated wiring, dampness, structural cracks, or a tired roof. Being upfront with this information helps you build trust with buyers and reduces the risk of complications later during inspections or negotiations.

Keep in mind that while you are not making repairs, you are still legally required to disclose significant defects in most states. These disclosures give buyers peace of mind and protect you from legal trouble down the line.

Setting the right price for your home is crucial. Since you’re not investing in renovations, your asking price should reflect the home’s current condition. Buyers will naturally factor in the cost of necessary repairs, so going too high might turn people off. A realistic price tag can generate more interest and potentially lead to quicker offers. Working with a local real estate agent can help you set a competitive price based on recent comparable sales in your area.

Also, today’s buyers may be more open to the idea of taking on fixer-uppers. In fact, 71% of loan officers surveyed in HomeLight’s 2025 Lender Insights & Predictions report say they’ve seen a rise in buyers willing to take more risks—whether it’s purchasing homes that need work, using unconventional financing, or accepting higher mortgage rates despite long-term affordability concerns. This shift presents a valuable opportunity for sellers offering homes in as-is condition.

While you’re not doing major repairs, a bit of presentation goes a long way. Simple things like cleaning windows, mowing the lawn, decluttering living spaces, and adding a fresh scent can make the home feel more inviting. These low-cost steps can boost the overall impression and give buyers confidence that the home has been cared for.

If your property needs a bit of love, help buyers visualize what it could become. Whether it’s showing concept drawings of an updated kitchen or pointing out space for a future outdoor deck, creating a vision of the home’s future can inspire buyers and shift their focus from what the home lacks to what it offers.

Not every buyer is after a perfect, move-in-ready home. Some are searching for a renovation project or an opportunity to get into a desirable area at a lower price. Investors, house flippers, and handy first-home buyers are often happy to roll up their sleeves. By understanding and targeting this audience, you’ll increase your chances of finding the right buyer quickly.

Even with an “as-is” listing, buyers might still want an inspection and use the results to negotiate the price. Go into the process with realistic expectations and a willingness to negotiate if needed. Having a little wiggle room in your asking price can help smooth things over without affecting your end result too much.

Every state has its own rules around disclosure, but generally speaking, you must inform buyers about any significant issues that could affect the property’s value or livability. This includes known damage, legal restrictions, or disputes. It’s wise to consult with your agent or legal adviser to ensure all boxes are ticked before the property hits the market.

Still unsure if selling as-is is the right move? This helpful video breaks down everything you need to know about putting your home on the market without investing in major repairs.

The idea that you need to renovate top to bottom before selling is outdated. Buyers are diverse, and many are actively looking for homes they can customize themselves. With the right pricing, honest communication, and a bit of basic presentation, you can sell your home confidently and efficiently—without draining your wallet.

For more insight on selling as-is and understanding the current buyer mindset, check out HomeLight’s resources, including their guide on selling a house as-is and their 2025 lender survey.