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What can I get away with not fixing when I sell my home?
Asked By Candy S. | Haddonfield, NJ | 1331 views | Finance Legal Info | Updated 3 years ago
Answers (7)
Grant Nulty
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors
Hi Candy, it honestly depends on the condition of the house and how you price it. You don’t necessarily have to fix everything before selling. Cosmetic stuff like older kitchens, worn carpet, dated bathrooms, or small things around the house usually aren’t deal breakers — buyers expect some of that.
Where issues tend to come up is with bigger items that show up during inspections like roof problems, structural issues, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC. Those are the things buyers often ask for credits or repairs on.
A lot of sellers also choose to list the property as-is, which basically tells buyers upfront that you’re not planning to make repairs. It doesn’t stop inspections, but it can set expectations and cut down on the back-and-forth later.
Where issues tend to come up is with bigger items that show up during inspections like roof problems, structural issues, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC. Those are the things buyers often ask for credits or repairs on.
A lot of sellers also choose to list the property as-is, which basically tells buyers upfront that you’re not planning to make repairs. It doesn’t stop inspections, but it can set expectations and cut down on the back-and-forth later.
- 5 days ago
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Keith Watts
Watts Team Real Estate, Inc.
Depends on the market. If inventory is short, and you don't have much competition buyer expectations are low. If there is an oversupply of available homes relative to the available buyers you are going to need to fix anything making the home unattractive. Regardless of the market, people hate water stains, mold, mildew smells, broken windows, dirt, cracks in structures, and stains.
- 4 years ago
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Jeannie Ricke-Finley
CENTURY 21 Arizona West
In the current market in my area, buyers have low expectations as it is a sellers market. AKA There is a shortage of homes compared to the number of buyers. Low Inventory.
I would strongly advise fixing safety issues. Most buyers hire a professional inspector. Sellers have options on what they will agree to fix. Keep Safety the Priority. Your buyers should be assured of at the minimum of a safe home.
I would strongly advise fixing safety issues. Most buyers hire a professional inspector. Sellers have options on what they will agree to fix. Keep Safety the Priority. Your buyers should be assured of at the minimum of a safe home.
- 4 years ago
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Jamie Moreng
Move with Moreng @ eXp Realty LLC
Yes you can get away with it, but the most important question is at what cost. You see, most buyers walking through your home will see these items as a “red flag” depending on how significant the repair is. If the repair is minor and cosmetic, it’s always best to fix this prior to putting your home on the market. If there is significant damage, then you may need to do an analysis of the after value repair. The risk in not fixing anything may limit your buyer pool to cash buyer and or investors, who typically will pay much less than your owner occupant buyer. Hope this helps.
- 2 years ago
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MICHAEL LYNCH
eXp Realty
Technically you don't have to fix anything on your home. If you sell it "As is" and sell to an investor, then usually they'll just have an inspection to check the roof, ac, plumbing and water heater. It'll just effect your final sale price. If you want top dollar, then fix repairs prior to sale and the inspector may have a list as well. It's yours and it's up to you, but like anything else for sale, the way it looks will draw more or less $$. I can get you an agent here in FL as well in your area. Good luck! Have a great day!
- 4 years ago
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Anna Palasz
Ania Real Estate and Property Management LLC
As Everyone here mentioned, if You get a cash buyer (no banks involved), the condition of the home may be reflected in its price, but You will be able to sell "as-is". Homes that need repairs, even just cosmetic, usually stay on the market longer as nowadays it is either flippers that buy houses under market value or Owner Occupants who want move-in condition and do not care to do upgrades... So it is really Your choice to determine if the repairs are worth Your time and money or not.
- 4 years ago
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James Parker - Realtor
Vylla Home (US), LLC
Haddonfield is a VALUE focused Market. Best to go Above and Beyond and Compile an Inspiring List of Capital Improvements and Upgrades!
- 4 years ago
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