Thinking About Selling Your House As-Is? Read This First

If you’re considering selling—whether as-is or with improvements—let’s have a quick, no-pressure conversation. Together, we’ll determine the strategy that helps you sell faster, smarter, and for the most money possible in today’s Central Florida real estate market.

If you’re thinking about selling your house in Central Florida this year, you’re probably facing one of the most common—and most important—questions homeowners ask:

• Do you sell your home as-is, skipping repairs and updates to save time and effort?

• Or do you invest in minor improvements to attract more buyers and potentially sell for a higher price?

In 2026, this decision matters more than it has in years. With more homes hitting the market and buyers becoming selective again, the condition of your property can significantly impact how fast it sells and how much you walk away with.

As a Central Florida Realtor with 34 years of experience, I’ve helped thousands of homeowners navigate this exact choice. Let’s break down what’s really happening in today’s market—and how to decide what’s best for your home.

More Competition Means Home Condition Matters Again

Over the last few years, sellers enjoyed historically low inventory and intense buyer competition. Homes sold quickly, often with multiple offers—even if they needed work.

That’s changing.

Housing inventory across Central Florida is rising, and forecasts show the number of homes for sale continuing to grow. As buyers gain more choices, they regain negotiating power. That means:

• Buyers are comparing homes more carefully

• Move-in ready homes stand out

• Homes needing work face tougher competition

In other words, details matter again.

That’s one reason most homeowners don’t choose to sell completely as-is.

According to a recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), two-thirds of sellers (65%) completed minor repairs or improvements before selling (the blue and the green in the chart below). And only one-third (35%) sold as-is:

What Selling a House As-Is Really Means

Selling your house as-is means you’re telling buyers upfront that:

• You won’t make repairs before listing

• You won’t negotiate repairs after inspections

• The home will be sold in its current condition

This approach can absolutely simplify the process for sellers. There’s less stress, less upfront expense, and fewer decisions to make.

However, there are trade-offs.

Homes sold as-is typically attract:

• Fewer buyers

• More investors and cash buyers

• Lower initial offers

• Longer days on market

That doesn’t mean your home won’t sell. It simply means it may not sell for top dollar, especially compared to similar homes that are move-in ready.

Why Move-In Ready Homes Sell for More in Central Florida

Buyers today are dealing with higher interest rates, insurance costs, and rising living expenses. Because of that, many are hesitant to take on homes that require immediate repairs.

Move-in ready homes offer:

• Less financial risk

• Easier loan approval

• Faster closings

• More emotional appeal

When buyers can picture themselves living comfortably from day one, they’re more likely to:

• Schedule showings

• Submit stronger offers

• Waive minor contingencies

That emotional connection is one of the most powerful drivers of higher sale prices.

When Selling As-Is Does Make Sense

Despite the drawbacks, selling as-is can still be the right choice in certain situations, including:

• Major structural or foundation issues

• Significant deferred maintenance

• Inherited or estate properties

• Time-sensitive relocations

• Limited budget for repairs

In these cases, the key is pricing and positioning the home correctly—and that’s where professional guidance becomes critical.

How a Central Florida Realtor Helps You Decide

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right strategy depends on:

• Your home’s condition

• Your neighborhood

• Current buyer demand

• Your timeline

• Your financial goals

That’s why working with an experienced Central Florida Realtor like Robert Michael Diaz can make all the difference.

If You Choose to Sell As-Is

A skilled agent will:

• Highlight the home’s strongest features (location, lot size, layout)

• Market to the right buyer pool

• Set expectations clearly to avoid surprises

• Price the home strategically to attract interest without leaving money on the table
  

If You Decide to Make Repairs

Your agent can:

• Identify which repairs actually increase value

• Help you avoid unnecessary upgrades

• Recommend trusted local vendors

• Ensure improvements align with buyer expectations in Central Florida

Often, small updates—like fresh paint, landscaping, or minor cosmetic fixes—deliver the biggest return.

Timing Matters: Why You Still Have Options

Spring remains the peak homebuying season in Central Florida. That means sellers still have time to:

• Make selective repairs

• Prepare their home properly

• List at the optimal moment

There’s no need to rush. Strategic preparation almost always beats speed—especially in a more balanced market.

Bottom Line: Should You Sell As-Is or Fix It First?

Selling your home as-is can still work—but in many Central Florida markets, it may cost you more than you realize.

You don’t have to make repairs before listing.
But in today’s market, you may want to.

The smartest move is to understand your options clearly, compare potential outcomes, and make a decision based on facts—not guesswork.

Work With a Proven Central Florida Real Estate Expert

Robert Michael Diaz is a Multi-Billion Dollar Producer, Broker-Owner, and Gulf War Veteran with over 34 years of real estate experience helping homeowners succeed across Central Florida.

📍 Contact Information

Robert Michael Diaz – Broker | Owner
Robert Michael & Co – Real Estate Team
618 E. South St., Ste 500
Orlando, FL 32801

🕘 Hours:
Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: By Appointment Only

📞 Tel: 407-545-2272
📱 Text: 941-676-9780
📧 Email: Robert@robertmichael.com
🌐 Website: https://www.robertmichael.com

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Ready to Talk About Your Home?

If you’re considering selling—whether as-is or with improvements—let’s have a quick, no-pressure conversation. Together, we’ll determine the strategy that helps you sell faster, smarter, and for the most money possible in today’s Central Florida real estate market.