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Damaged House | © Tima Miroshnichenko via Pexels

Selling a damaged house can seem complicated, but it can become achievable and rewarding with the right strategies. Whether major repairs, structural issues, or significant cosmetic improvements are needed on the property, the right buyer is out there. Here are some tips on how you can sell your damaged home quickly.

Market to the Right Audience

Not all buyers are willing to tackle the challenges of buying a property that needs repairs, but quite a few would welcome such an opportunity. Professional home buyers like the New England Home Buyers will look for a property to renovate and sell for profit. DIY enthusiasts would jump at this opportunity to make a house into their dream home. In contrast, first-time and budget buyers will view this damaged house as an excellent avenue into homeownership.

A great listing emphasizing your property as a fixer-upper or an ideal blank canvas for customization will attract buyers. Detailing the property’s potential value after repairs and as much as possible about the current state helps capture the interest of the right buyers. Include photographs or descriptions of the damage and the house’s strong points, as these will appeal to the right buyers.

Price It Right

Price is one of the sensitive areas of real estate and an important area in selling. Pricing can be even more critical when selling a house with some visible damage. Typically, a buyer would want repair costs off the house list price. An excellent way to price it fairly is to know the selling price of similar houses in the area that are in good shape and then factor in some estimate of repairs with downward adjustments made accordingly.

Consulting a professional real estate agent or an appraiser would provide you with a better idea of what your house is worth. Setting an inflated price on a damaged house is sellers’ biggest mistake, as it drives away most buyers and prolongs negotiations. A thoroughly researched and reasonably priced home attracts serious buyers and allows for fast offers.

Sell As-Is

Selling as-is is a straightforward route when dealing with damaged property. An as-is sale shows that the buyer is willing to purchase the house in its current state without requiring the seller to make repairs or upgrades. The worst thing about selling as-is is that the final price is likely lower because buyers will factor repair costs into their offers.

Honesty is essential if you are interested in selling as-is. Many states have laws requiring sellers to disclose any known defects, such as roof leaks, plumbing problems, or foundation problems. Being honest about your house will avoid misunderstandings and legal ramifications. An inspection report will help buyers further understand what they’re getting into.

Highlight the Positives

Even a damaged house has unique strengths and selling points. These aspects can distinguish between a quick sale and months of waiting. Think about the characteristics that will attract potential buyers to your property. This could include living in an elite neighborhood, a large block, or some particular architecture that adds a specific character to the house. Fixer-upper buyers may be open to making repairs if they see promise in the property.

If the property has a good floor plan or provides flexibility in modifications and consultation, mention them. Along with your listing description, invest in good-quality photographs or virtual tours to focus on the most lovable characteristics of your home. With good photography, a potential buyer will be more able to see beyond the damage to the workability of the house.

Work with a Cash Buyer

Working with a cash buyer can be the best option if you want to sell your damaged house quickly. They’re handy because you don’t have to wait long for loan approvals; inspections and negotiation processes are shortened. Generally, they buy houses in as-is condition, sparing you the repairs and costs. 

The time it takes to close the deal will reduce when selling to a cash buyer, as the deal often goes through in just under a week. However, research potential buyers and check their reputations to get a great deal. See if reviews, testimonials, and past evidence of similar successful transactions exist. Getting several cash offers will help you know your property’s value and avoid underpricing it.

Endnote

Selling a house that has been damaged does not have to be a long or arduous process. With sensible pricing, target marketing, and approaching the deal without excessively exaggerating issues, you can tap motivated buyers to close a deal soon. Whether you decide to sell as-is, focus on the home’s strengths, or work with a cash buyer, these strategies will help you turn your damaged property into an opportunity for you and the buyer.