Sell Fast Without Selling As-Is: Simple Repairs That Speed Up Your Home Sale

By Diane Cardano-Casacio

I'm an expert in real estate marketing and negotiation. With innovative strategies and sharp negotiation skills, I help home sellers sell quickly, creatively, and for top dollar while saving them money.

You’re thinking about selling your home, and the first question that comes up is this: Should you sell it as-is or make some repairs first? It sounds simple, but I’ve seen sellers lose tens of thousands of dollars by making the wrong call. I had one client who started planning a year in advance—we made a clear plan, did a few small updates, and their home sold for $38,000 more than expected. On the other hand, a neighbor a block away waited too long, listed quickly with no prep, and walked away with much less. Today, I’ll walk you through how to choose whether to sell your home as-is or do some upgrades:

Preparation is the key. Here’s the truth: when you list your home without doing the right prep work, you’re giving buyers a discount. That discount is usually a lot more than the cost of the repairs. Most sellers don’t realize that small things like old light fixtures, dirty grout, worn carpet, or even the wrong paint color can turn buyers off immediately. You don’t need a full remodel. You just need a plan. That’s why I always recommend a room-by-room walkthrough before doing anything. We look at every space, make a list, get actual estimates, and prioritize only what will give you the best return.

What are the top fixes that work? Updated lighting, neutral paint, clean closets, fresh mulch, a painted front door, and modern cabinet hardware. These are low-cost changes that create strong emotional reactions for buyers. And don’t forget the outside—buyers decide whether to even step inside based on those first few photos. That’s why I push for clean gutters, trimmed bushes, and a driveway that looks clean and well-maintained. First impressions are everything.

If you’re even thinking about selling your home within the next year, now’s the time to plan. The earlier you start, the more control you have. I can connect you with trusted contractors, help you avoid wasted costs, and guide you through what buyers are actually looking for in today’s market. If you want to make sure your home sells fast and for top dollar, call or text me at (215)669-6285 or email me at dianeandteam@cardanohomeservice.com. I look forward to hearing from you!