When you see “as is” in a listing, it simply means the seller isn’t planning to make any repairs before closing. You’re agreeing to buy the home in its current condition—good, bad, or somewhere in between.

*Fun fact: in Texas, the only thing that legally has to work is the smoke detector!

That doesn’t mean the home is falling apart, though. Some sellers list “as is” because they’re short on time or money, or simply want a quick, no-hassle sale. Others may truly have a property that needs major work, so it’s up to you (and your inspector!) to find out which one you’re dealing with.

So let’s talk through what it looks like if you’re considering an “As Is” home.

Do Your Homework

Texas law requires sellers to complete a property disclosure form—so you’ll still get some info about the home’s condition. But if the seller never lived there (for example, it’s a rental, an estate, or a foreclosure), they might not know much about potential issues.

That’s why it’s so important to:

• Get a detailed inspection during your option period
• Ask for any repair or maintenance history
• Be extra cautious if the seller is a non-occupant

Protect Yourself

Once you have your inspection report, get quotes from contractors for any big repairs. This helps you decide if the home is still worth it—or if we can negotiate a lower price. Hello, this is just one of the places I come in!

And remember: including the right contingencies in your offer means you can always walk away if the home turns out to be more than you’re comfortable taking on.

An “as is” home isn’t automatically a bad buy. It can actually be a smart move if you go in with your eyes wide open, do your due diligence, and have a good inspector on your side.

If you’re curious about whether an “as is” home could be a good fit for your situation, just reach out—I can walk you through how to evaluate it safely.