Thinking About Selling Your House As-Is? Read This First
If you’re thinking about selling your home this year, you may be weighing two options:
- Sell it as-is and skip repairs altogether
- Make a few updates so it shows better and potentially sells for more
In 2026, that decision matters more than it used to. Here’s why.
More Homes for Sale Means Condition Matters Again
Inventory has been rising, and according to a Realtor.com forecast, the number of homes for sale could increase another 8.9% this year. With more choices available, buyers can afford to be selective again, which means details and condition are back in focus.
That’s one reason most sellers don’t choose the as-is route.
A recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) study found that 65% of sellers completed minor repairs or improvements before selling, while only 35% sold their homes as-is (see chart).
What Selling As-Is Really Means
Selling as-is means you’re letting buyers know upfront that you won’t make repairs before listing or negotiate fixes after inspection. While that can simplify things on your end, it often limits your buyer pool.
Move-in-ready homes tend to attract more interest and stronger offers. Homes that need work usually see fewer showings, fewer offers, and may sit on the market longer, often resulting in a lower final price.
That doesn’t mean an as-is home won’t sell. It just means it may not sell for as much as it could.
How Guidance Makes the Difference
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your home, your budget, and your local market.
That’s where expert guidance helps. A knowledgeable professional can help you understand what repairs (if any) are worth making and what your home might sell for either way.
- If you sell as-is: The focus shifts to highlighting location, layout, and long-term potential.
- If you make updates: You can prioritize improvements that matter most to buyers, without overspending.
The good news? With spring typically being the peak homebuying season, there’s still time to make thoughtful decisions without rushing.
Bottom Line
Selling as-is can make sense in certain situations - but in today’s market, it may come at a cost. You don’t have to make repairs before listing, but it’s worth fully understanding your options before you decide.
As part of your Employee Homeownership Program through Advantage Home Plus, you don’t have to navigate that decision alone. Employees who are thinking about selling can access guidance to help them:
- Understand how selling as-is versus making updates could impact price and timing
- Think through repair priorities and whether improvements are likely to pay off
- Plan their next move, including buying another home or coordinating sale timing
- Get clarity before listing, so there are fewer surprises along the way
- A quick conversation can help you weigh the trade-offs and decide what makes the most sense for your situation - before you put your home on the market.
A quick conversation can help you weigh the trade-offs and decide what makes the most sense for your situation - before you put your home on the market.
SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197
The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. * Real estate commission contributions are available as state laws allow.
Category: Home Sellers Homebuyers Selling a Home
