Can I Sell My Home As-Is and Move Out After I Sell It?
A common question we hear right now is, “Can I sell my home as-is and still move out after the sale?” For some sellers, the thought of moving everything out before closing can feel overwhelming, especially if they’ve collected a lot of belongings over the years. While selling your home as-is can be an option, it does come with some considerations that are worth thinking through if you’re aiming to get top dollar.
Selling As-Is: What Does It Really Mean?
When you choose to sell your home as-is, you’re putting it on the market in its current condition, without any repairs or updates. Although it may save you time, it could also reduce your home’s marketability. A home that’s overly full of items might not attract as many potential buyers because it limits their ability to fully inspect and visualize the space. Instead, homes with too much “stuff” often appeal mainly to investors who will factor the cost of clearing items into their offer.
Clutter Can Affect Your Sales Price
If you want to sell your home as-is but also get the best price, a streamlined, clutter-free environment is essential. Buyers need to see your home’s full potential, which is harder if it’s filled with personal belongings. A cluttered home can make it difficult for potential buyers to inspect every corner, and as a result, they may either offer less or pass entirely. If you sell your home many items remaining, it will likely attract investors who anticipate clean-up costs and will adjust their offer accordingly.
Staying in the Home After Selling: What Are the Options?
Most buyers are looking for a home they can move into quickly after closing, so selling your home as-is and staying in it after the sale isn’t usually appealing to them. There is a chance that a small percentage of investors might allow you to stay for a short time through a “lease-back” option, but these cases are rare. If staying post-sale is necessary, be prepared for the possibility of fewer offers and a reduced selling price.
Getting Ready to Sell Your Home As-Is
To increase your chances of getting top dollar, start the decluttering process early. Here are some practical steps:
– Sell or Donate Items You Don’t Need: Selling or donating items that are valuable but no longer needed can free up space.
– Remove Trash or Broken Items: Clearing out broken or unused items will create a cleaner, more appealing environment.
– Consider Storage for Important Belongings: If you have items that you’d like to keep but don’t use daily, storing them can help prepare your home to sell as-is in the best possible condition.
If you want to sell your home, the goal is to create a welcoming, open space that highlights your home’s best features. Typically, keeping only essential furniture like beds, dressers, a couch, and kitchen table can make the home feel larger and more inviting.
While it’s possible to sell your home as-is and hope for a lease-back arrangement, these scenarios are rare and could impact the final selling price. By preparing your home in advance, even when selling as-is, you can attract more buyers and increase your chances of securing a strong offer. At Key Cornerstone Realty, we’re here to guide you in making the best decisions to maximize your home’s value while meeting your needs.
Ready to learn more about how to sell your home as-is and still achieve your goals? Contact us today to get started!
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