What Are the Risks of Selling a House As-Is?
Quick Answer
The main risks are lower offers (typically 10-30% below market value), a smaller buyer pool (mostly investors), and potential inspection issues that scare off traditional buyers. However, selling as-is to a professional cash buyer eliminates most of these concerns because we don't require inspections, we close fast, and we make fair offers based on the actual condition.
The Real Risks of Selling As-Is
Selling a house "as-is" means you're offering it in its current condition without making repairs. Here are the actual risks you should consider:
1. Lower Offer Amounts
Buyers factor in repair costs, so as-is offers are typically 10-30% below market value. However, when you subtract the cost of repairs, realtor commissions, and months of holding costs, the net difference is often smaller than you'd think.
2. Smaller Buyer Pool
Most retail buyers can't or won't buy as-is properties. They need financing, and banks don't lend on houses with major issues. This leaves mostly investors—which isn't bad if you find a reputable one.
3. Inspection Surprises
Even as-is listings often allow inspections, and buyers may try to renegotiate or walk away based on findings. Cash buyers like us typically skip formal inspections—we assess the property ourselves and stand by our offer.
4. Longer Time on Market
As-is listings on the MLS can sit for months because traditional buyers avoid them. This means more carrying costs—mortgage payments, insurance, taxes, and utilities—while you wait.
When Selling As-Is Makes Sense
Despite the risks, selling as-is is often the right choice when:
- The house needs repairs you can't afford or don't want to manage
- You need to sell quickly (foreclosure, relocation, divorce)
- The property has issues that would fail a traditional inspection
- You inherited a house and don't want to deal with it
- You want to avoid the stress of showings, staging, and negotiations
How We Eliminate These Risks
At FL Home Buyers, selling as-is is what we do. Here's how we address each risk:
- Fair offers: As a licensed General Contractor, Max knows the real cost of repairs—not inflated guesses. Our offers reflect actual value.
- We are the buyer: No waiting for someone else to make a decision. We decide quickly and close fast.
- No inspections: We do our own assessment and don't renegotiate based on findings. What we offer is what you get.
- Close in 7-60 days: No months of waiting. Choose your closing date and we'll make it happen.
If you're considering selling as-is, get a free cash offer from us first. We'll tell you exactly what we can pay, and you can compare it to your other options. Call (561) 258-9405 or request an offer online.