Selling a home can be stressful, but when the house needs repairs, it feels even more overwhelming. Many homeowners believe they must fix everything before selling, but that’s not true.
You might be wondering: Can you sell a house that needs repairs?
Yes! Many buyers are willing to purchase homes that need work, especially if the price reflects the condition. In fact, selling a house as-is can save time, money, and stress—especially if you need to sell fast.
This guide will walk you through the best strategies to sell your house without making repairs, whether you want a quick cash sale or prefer to list it as-is with a real estate agent.
Can You Sell a House That Needs Repairs?
Yes! Selling a house that needs repairs is absolutely possible, and there are several ways to do it.
Buyers fall into three categories when it comes to homes that need repairs:
- Cash buyers & investors – They purchase homes as-is, fix them, and resell or rent them out.
- Fixer-upper buyers – Some homebuyers look for a discounted property they can renovate.
- Traditional buyers – These buyers may be interested but often require repairs before closing.
If your goal is to sell your house without repairs quickly, cash buyers and investors are the fastest and easiest option.
4 Ways to Sell a House Fast That Needs Repairs
If you’re asking, “How can I sell my house as is fast?”, here are the most effective options:
1. Sell to a Cash Buyer or Real Estate Investor
Selling to a cash buyer as-is is the fastest and simplest way to sell a house that needs repairs.
Why? Cash buyers don’t rely on bank financing, which means:
- No mortgage approvals – No risk of the buyer’s financing falling through.
- No appraisals or inspections – No delays caused by lender requirements.
- No repairs required – They buy homes in any condition.
Cash buyers usually close in 7-14 days, making this the best option for homeowners who want to sell fast and move on.
2. Sell to an iBuyer
iBuyers are large real estate companies that use technology to make instant offers on homes. They often buy homes in fair condition but may charge service fees and offer lower prices than traditional buyers.
3. List Your Home As-Is on the Market
If you have more time and want to reach a larger audience, you can list your home as-is with a real estate agent.
What does selling as-is mean?
- No repairs are required before closing.
- Buyers purchase with full knowledge of the home’s condition.
- You disclose major issues upfront.
However, you may still need to price it lower to attract offers from buyers willing to take on repairs.
4. Offer Seller Financing
Seller financing allows buyers to pay you in installments instead of taking a mortgage. This attracts buyers who might not qualify for traditional loans but are willing to handle repairs themselves.
Selling a House That Needs Repairs: Pros and Cons
Selling a house without repairs has advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of Selling a House As-Is
- Saves time and money – No costly renovations or contractor delays.
- Faster closing – Cash buyers and as-is listings close quicker than traditional sales.
- No dealing with repairs – Avoid the hassle of managing contractors.
Cons of Selling As-Is
- Lower sale price – Buyers expect a discount to cover repair costs.
- Fewer interested buyers – Many traditional buyers prefer move-in-ready homes.
- Potential for negotiations – Some buyers may still request minor repairs or credits.
If your goal is to sell fast and avoid repairs, the speed and convenience of selling as-is often outweigh the potential downsides.
How to Sell a House That Needs Repairs for the Best Price
If you want to sell your house without making repairs but still get a fair price, follow these steps:
1. Get a Pre-Sale Inspection
Even when selling as-is, it helps to know the home’s condition. A pre-sale inspection:
- Identifies major issues that might concern buyers.
- Helps you set a fair price based on needed repairs.
- Gives you more control over negotiations.
2. Price It Right
Homes that need repairs must be priced realistically. If the price is too high, buyers will look for move-in-ready homes instead.
Work with a real estate agent or investor to determine a fair price based on:
- The home’s current condition.
- The cost of necessary repairs.
- Recent sales of similar homes in your area.
3. Be Honest About the Home’s Condition
Full disclosure is key when selling a home that needs repairs. Be upfront about:
- Structural issues (foundation, roof, etc.).
- Plumbing, electrical, or HVAC problems.
- Past water or fire damage.
Honesty helps avoid legal issues and builds trust with buyers.
4. Highlight the Home’s Best Features
Even if your home needs repairs, it still has value. Focus on:
- Location – Proximity to schools, shopping, or transportation.
- Lot size – A large yard or extra space can attract buyers.
- Potential renovations – Buyers love homes with “good bones.”
5. Market to the Right Buyers
Your ideal buyers are:
- Cash buyers and investors – They want properties to flip or rent.
- Fixer-upper buyers – They’re looking for lower-priced homes to renovate.
- Contractors or DIY homeowners – They see repair projects as an opportunity.
By targeting the right audience, you can sell faster and with fewer headaches.
FAQs About Selling a House That Needs Repairs
Can you sell a house that needs repairs?
Yes, many buyers purchase homes that need work, especially cash buyers and investors.
How do I sell my house as-is fast?
The fastest way to sell as-is is to sell to a cash buyer. They close quickly and don’t require inspections or repairs.
Will I get a lower price if I sell a house that needs repairs?
Yes, buyers expect a discount for repair costs, but pricing it competitively can still attract strong offers.
What if my home has major damage?
Even if your home has structural, fire, or water damage, you can sell to a cash buyer who specializes in distressed properties.
Is selling a home that needs repairs worth it?
If you can’t afford repairs or need to sell quickly, selling as-is is a great option to save time and avoid stress.
Final Thoughts: Should You Sell Your House As-Is?
If your home needs repairs and you want to sell quickly without fixing anything, you have options. Selling to a cash buyer or investor is the fastest and easiest way to close without making repairs.
If you have more time, listing the home as-is with a real estate agent could help you get a higher price, but it may take longer.
Need to sell your house as-is fast? Big and Small Properties buy homes in any condition with no repairs, no showings, and no hassle. Contact us today for a fair cash offer and sell your home in days!
