Should we sell Mom and Dad’s home as-is or fix it up
Deciding whether to fix up or sell your parents' home as-is depends on your goals, the property's condition, and the current market.
Should We Sell Mom and Dad’s Home As-Is or Fix It Up?
Selling a parent's home—whether after they’ve moved to assisted living, downsized, or passed away—is often an emotional and practical challenge. One of the biggest questions families face is: “Should we sell the house as-is, or fix it up first?”
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but the right decision usually comes down to time, budget, the home's condition, and your goals.
✅ Selling As-Is
Selling “as-is” means putting the home on the market in its current condition, without making repairs or updates. This option is often best when:
The home needs major repairs or is outdated.
You don’t have the time or money for renovations.
You want a fast, low-stress sale.
You’re selling to investors or buyers who are willing to do the work themselves.
The trade-off? You may need to price the home lower, and some buyers may be hesitant if the home doesn’t qualify for traditional financing.
🔨 Fixing It Up
Making repairs or improvements can increase the home’s value and appeal to more buyers. It may make sense to fix up the home if:
The repairs are mostly cosmetic (paint, flooring, landscaping).
The market favors move-in-ready homes.
You have the time, energy, and budget to manage the work.
You're hoping to get top dollar from retail buyers.
Just be careful not to over-renovate—sometimes, simple updates are enough.
💡 A Smart Middle Ground
In many cases, the best approach is a light refresh: decluttering, deep cleaning, fresh paint, and minor repairs. These simple, affordable steps can improve the home's presentation without the cost and stress of a full renovation.
The Bottom Line:
Sell as-is if you want less hassle and a quicker process.
Fix it up if your goal is to maximize the sale price and attract more traditional buyers.
Always base your decision on the home's condition, your timeline, the local market, and your capacity to manage the process.
Contact Allen Deaver of Asset Realty for More Information About Selling Mom and Dad’s Home As-is or Fix it up
