Answers by Melanie Cameron

I would definitely paint. Every buyer that comes through will question why the drywall was patched. Then, they'll inflate the cost of paying someone to do it for them during due diligence and/or make a low offer. From experience, it will be more cost-effective to pay for it to be done before listing than during the negotiation stage.

The seller may have said they are selling "as-is", but you can still ask for repairs. They may say no, but they may also be willing to make them to get the home sold. Just make sure you focus on the systems and not cosmetic repairs. Get quotes for the repairs that you can present when asking. Of course, be fully prepared to walk away. Don't wait until the day the negotiation stage ends before you ask.

Cash offers are often significantly lower than what you would get listing your home on the market. The person making the offer is banking on the fact that you are ready to be done with the home and have already moved on. If you're willing to sacrifice a chunk of your proceeds, then it may be right for you. I would find a real estate agent who can help you by taking part of the mental and physical load of getting the home ready, showed, and repaired (if needed). Be upfront about your needs and I'm sure you'll get it.

It can vary from home to home, but typically comes through an area near the front of the house. If you have a basement, check there. If you have a garage, it may be there or near your water heater.