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One of the most common questions I hear from homeowners is: “Should I sell my house as-is, or should I fix it up first?”
It’s a fair question — and in today’s market, it’s an important one.
Selling as-is can sound appealing. No repairs, no contractors, no extra stress. But as we head into 2026 and inventory continues to rise across Fort Worth and surrounding areas, this decision matters more than it did a year or two ago.
Here’s what I want you to know before you decide.
Over the past year, we’ve seen more homes come on the market — and that trend is expected to continue. When buyers have more choices, they also have more room to be selective. That’s when condition, presentation, and first impressions start to matter again.
In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, about 65% of sellers make minor repairs or improvements before listing, while only about 35% sell their homes as-is. Most sellers understand that even small updates can help their home stand out and attract stronger offers.
Selling as-is doesn’t mean your home won’t sell — it just means you’re limiting who’s willing to buy it.
When a home is listed as-is, buyers know upfront that repairs won’t be made and that negotiations after inspection are likely off the table. That often narrows your buyer pool to investors or buyers willing to take on projects. As a result, as-is homes typically see:
That trade-off may make sense in some situations — especially if time or circumstances are the priority — but it’s important to understand the potential cost before choosing that route.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Every home, neighborhood, and seller situation is different.
When I work with clients at Mills Real Estate Group, my goal is to help you understand what your home could sell for as-is versus with strategic updates — and then let you decide what makes the most sense.
If selling as-is is the best option, we focus on marketing the home’s strengths: location, layout, lot size, and long-term potential. If making improvements is the better move, I’ll help you identify which updates buyers actually care about — and which ones aren’t worth your time or money.
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s positioning your home to attract the right buyers at the right price.
Spring is still the most active buying season, which means there’s time to make smart, manageable updates without rushing. Even simple improvements — paint, lighting, small repairs — can make a noticeable difference when competition increases.
Selling as-is can absolutely be the right choice in certain situations. But in a market where buyers have more options, it can also leave money on the table.
You don’t have to renovate your home to sell it — but you do want to make an informed decision. A quick conversation can help you understand your options clearly and confidently.
If you’re thinking about selling and want honest, local guidance, I’m always happy to talk through what makes the most sense for your home and your goals.
— Joshua Mills Owner | Mills Real Estate Group Let's Chat