Can you sell a Snohomish or King County home that needs major repairs?
Yes, you can absolutely sell a home that needs major repairs. Many homes in Snohomish and King County sell every year in as-is condition, even when they need roof replacements, plumbing upgrades, foundation work, or full interior renovations. With the right pricing, disclosures, and strategy, REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye helps homeowners sell properties with significant repair needs while still protecting their equity.
What Counts as “Major Repairs”?
Major repairs refer to issues that impact safety, structure, or livability. These issues often show up in pre‑inspections or buyer inspections.
Common major repairs include:
- Failing roofs or roof leaks
- Old or hazardous electrical systems
- Foundation settling or cracks
- Structural issues with decks, stairs, or support beams
- Failing plumbing, sewer lines, or septic systems
- Mold, water intrusion, or damaged siding
- Unpermitted additions needing correction
Step 1: Decide Whether to Repair or Sell As‑Is
The first major decision is whether to fix the issues or sell the home as‑is. Repairs can increase your sale price, but they take time, money, and contractor coordination.
Most sellers choose one of three options:
- Complete repairs before listing (maximizes value, but requires investment)
- Do partial updates (tackle the high‑impact repairs)
- Sell as‑is (fastest and simplest route)
Marie‑Noelle provides a detailed market analysis showing your ‘repaired value’ versus your ‘as‑is value,’ so you can make an informed financial decision.
Step 2: Price the Home Based on Condition
Pricing is the most important factor when selling a home needing major repairs. Buyers expect a discount that reflects the cost of improvements.
In high‑demand areas like Bothell, Lynnwood, Seattle, Shoreline, and Mill Creek, homes with significant repairs can still attract strong interest if they are priced correctly.
Marie‑Noelle studies comparable sales to help you position the home competitively while still protecting as much equity as possible.
Step 3: Market the Home Transparently and Professionally
A home needing major repairs must be marketed honestly. Buyers appreciate transparency, and honesty protects you legally.
Strong marketing still matters, even for fixer‑uppers.
This includes:
- Professional photography
- Clear descriptions of what needs repair
- Highlighting the home’s potential and location advantages
- Targeting investor buyers, flippers, and renovation‑loan buyers
Marie‑Noelle positions your home strategically so buyers see opportunity rather than just work.
Step 4: Disclose All Known Issues
Washington State requires sellers to disclose known defects, especially major ones that affect safety or value. This includes issues discovered in a pre‑inspection, old reports, or past repair quotes.
Full disclosure protects you from future legal claims and helps ensure your buyer is committed and well‑informed.
Step 5: Understand the Types of Buyers for Homes Needing Work
Homes needing major repairs often attract specific buyer types:
- Cash buyers looking for investment opportunities
- Flippers planning to renovate and resell
- Buy-and-hold investors seeking long‑term rentals
- Owner‑occupants using renovation loans, such as FHA 203(k) or HomeStyle Renovation
Marie-Noelle helps evaluate each offer to ensure the buyer is capable of closing, even with the home’s condition.
Local Market Insight
Fixer-upper homes are in high demand throughout Snohomish and King County, especially in markets like Everett, Shoreline, Renton, Bothell, and Seattle. Rising home prices have made renovated homes expensive, so buyers increasingly look for homes they can customize themselves.
This demand means you can still achieve strong results, even if your home needs substantial work.
Conclusion: You Can Sell, Even If the Home Needs Major Repairs
Homes in rough condition sell every day. The key is having the right strategy, accurate pricing, and an experienced agent to guide the process.
If you’re selling a Snohomish or King County home that needs major repairs, contact REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye for a clear plan, strong negotiation support, and a market‑driven approach to protect your equity.
