What selling as is means
Selling as is means you sell the home in its current condition. You don't fix, update, or stage it first.
Many investors plan their own repairs after they buy. They look at the home, factor in the work, and make an offer based on what they see. That can save you the time and planning that repairs take.
Selling as is can also skip the back and forth over repair requests that can come up in some sales. The investor sees the home and makes an offer with the work in mind.
Often no repairs or cleanup needed
With many investors, you can sell without patching walls, replacing a roof, or hauling away old items. Some homeowners take what they want and leave the rest.
Talk with the investor about what you plan to leave behind. Put that agreement in the purchase contract so everyone is clear.
Investors see homes in every condition. Whatever shape your home is in, you can share it openly and let them do the planning.
- Older roofs, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical.
- Foundation or water issues.
- Outdated kitchens and baths.
- Homes that need a full clean-out.
- Fire or storm damage.
Disclosures still apply in most states
Selling as is is about repairs, not about what you share. Many states have seller disclosure rules, and they often still apply to as-is sales. The details vary by state.
A federal rule also applies to homes built before 1978. Sellers must disclose known lead-based paint and hazards, share available reports, and give buyers an EPA pamphlet. Buyers also get a chance to inspect, which they can waive.
Sharing what you know is simple and helps the sale go smoothly. An attorney or your title company can point you to your state's forms.
If you're unsure whether something counts as a known issue, list it anyway. Clear notes make the investor's review faster and help everyone feel confident.
- Make a list of known issues, past repairs, and their dates.
- Gather any inspection reports you already have.
- Note whether the home was built before 1978.
- Ask what disclosure form your state uses.
Unpermitted work
Many homes have additions or updates that were done without a permit. A finished basement, a deck, or a converted garage are common examples.
It usually helps to tell the investor about this early. Many investors are comfortable buying homes with unpermitted work and handling it later. Your state's disclosure rules may also ask about it.
If you're not sure what was permitted, your city or county building department can often look up permit records for the address.
Getting ready for the walkthrough
The walkthrough lets the investor see the home's condition in person. You usually don't need to clean or fix anything first.
It helps to make sure the investor can reach every area. That includes the attic, basement, crawl space, and any outbuildings.
You're welcome to walk with the investor and point out what you know. Sharing the home's history, such as when the water heater was replaced, is helpful.
- Unlock rooms and outbuildings.
- Keep utilities on if you can, so systems can be checked.
- Have your list of known issues handy.
A note on advice
Disclosure rules vary by state and can change. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. A local real estate attorney can tell you exactly what applies to your sale.
General information, not legal or tax advice.