Hi!
If you’re thinking about selling a house, chances are you’ve asked yourself this question:
“Should I renovate or sell as-is?”
It’s one of the most common questions we hear and for good reason.
Whether your property needs a bit of TLC or a full makeover, it’s important to weigh up your options carefully.
Not just to get the best price.
Let’s walk you through the pros and cons and help you decide what’s right for you.
What Does “Selling As-Is” Actually Mean?
When we say sell as-is, we mean putting the house on the market in its current condition.
You won’t paint the walls, fix the leaky tap or replace the worn-out carpet.
You simply sell it exactly how it is, flaws and all.
This is ideal if the property is a doerupper or if you don’t have the time or funds to renovate. But is it the best route?
The Case for Renovating Before Selling
A property in immaculate condition naturally attracts more buyers.
People love walking into a home and feeling like it’s move-in ready.
It takes the stress out of buying a house, especially for those who aren’t “handy”.
Renovations can also significantly boost the asking price.
A fresh coat of paint, a modern kitchen or even just new flooring can work wonders.
If your home is mostly solid but just looks tired, small updates could deliver big returns.
But remember: renovations cost money, and you won’t always get every penny back. So be smart about what you do and set a clear budget from the start.
When Selling As-Is Makes More Sense
Sometimes, it’s better to avoid the hassle altogether.
If the property is in poor condition or needs major structural work,
you may not have the time or funds to take it on.
Selling as-is attracts buyers who are looking for a doerupper.
These buyers see potential where others might see problems.
They’re often developers, investors or DIY-savvy couples.
This can actually be a real advantage.
You avoid the stress of project-managing a renovation,
and buyers can make it their own from the ground up.
Think About Who You’re Selling To
If you want to sell to a family looking for their forever home,
a tidy, updated property will stand out.
But if your property is dated, unloved, or part-finished,
lean into its potential instead of hiding it.
A good agent or platform—like DoerUpper.co.uk—can help you highlight that potential.
They know how to market doeruppers properly and attract the right audience.
